Common mistakes to avoid when using a hedge trimmer

Using a hedge trimmer can be a straightforward task but there are several easy mistakes that can undermine its performance.

Read on for tips that will help prolong the lifespan of your trimmer and keep your hedges looking at their best.

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1. Pruning during nesting season

Most seasoned gardeners will be aware of this already, but if you're a beginner or a first-time hedge trimmer owner, this is an easy mistake to make. 

Nesting season in the UK lasts from late February until August and using a hedge trimmer during those months can disturb or even harm birds nesting in the hedges. It’s an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 to disturb them. Check for active nests whenever you want to trim a hedge and postpone the job if you find any. 

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2. Not using protective gear

Using any type of protective gear is always a good idea when operating a power tool as it can help prevent serious injuries. Wearing thick gloves will protect your hands from cuts, while goggles will shield your eyes from flying trimmings and dust.

It's also advised to wear long-sleeved clothing and steel-toed boots for extra protection from accidental cuts during use. You may also want to wear ear protection as hedge cutting can be a noisy job.

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3. Using your hedge trimmer in the rain

Using your hedge trimmer in the rain is strongly discouraged due to safety risks as rain can increase the risk of electrical shock. It can also damage the equipment and reduce the effectiveness of your trimmer.

By only using your power tool in dry weather you're preventing moisture from getting into the motor or other components and ensuring it stays in excellent working condition for longer.  

4. Using dull blades

Using dull blades can have many negative consequences, including damaging the hedging plant, significantly reducing the effectiveness of your trimmer and even posing a risk of accidents.

Jagged cuts can increase the risk of disease entering the plants. Regular maintenance, which includes sharpening of blades, is also very important as it prevents motor burnout due to unnecessary strain.

Additionally, using dull blades can lead to a higher chance of slips and injuries. Keep the blades sharp to ensure safer operation.

We round-up the best hedge trimmers for small and large hedges. 

5. Letting the battery of a cordless trimmer go down to zero percent

Once you're ready to store your cordless grass trimmer, whether that's for the day until the next season, keep in mind that letting your battery run out completely contributes towards faster deterioration and ultimately shortens its lifespan.

If you use your grass trimmer regularly, try to charge the battery before it drops below 20%, but it's good practice to charge it to over 50% is you're planning on storing it for the winter. Check on it every month or so during winter and recharge if necessary.

You should also give it a quick clean before putting it away, so use a dry cloth to wipe it down. Always store it in a dry, cool place and avoid extreme temperatures, such as in a greenhouse or shed.

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