Cool Tools: Pruners Felco #2 - and other options

Over the next weeks I will blog a few "cool tools" for basic gardening at schools and elsewhere - and consider what works and why.

Pruners are for trimming back small growth - under half inch diameter usually.  Where the blades are scissor-action or "bypass" they are designed for cutting green growth - while "anvil" type blades are better for dead heading and cutting dry twigs.  

If you need bypass pruners, try a Felco #2.  Felco #2's  are "the most recommended pruners in the world" for good reasons: the blades cut well, the pruners are very well-balanced for adult hands, a left-hand version is available.  Bottom line: worth the money if you look after them!

If you haven't tried them - do.  These tools are engineered to last and you can buy spare parts.

Invest in Felco's at http://www.felcostore.com/pruners - and elsewhere such as Amazon for - $50- 60.

If you need lighter-weight tools for working with children - then try a half-inch anvil pruner such as the Gilmour or Green Thumb - both available at Amazon - or at local hardware stores.  These small and lightweight pruners work well for small hands and small snippings, and have useful thumb safety clips.  These are much cheaper at $5 - 12 each and so are useful for stocking outdoor learning labs.

Check these pruners out at http://www.amazon.com/Gilmour-18TGT-Green-Pruner-2-Inch/dp/B000GIO2IM

Next Cool Tools will look at trowels...