The best gardening tool you will ever use

In the world of pruning shears Felco clippers are the standard by which all others are measured. Experienced gardeners and professional landscapers alike swear by this terrific time-tested tool. Efficient for deadheading, flower cutting, rose pruning, shrub trimming and tree tidying, they are also ergonomically elegant in your hand. The red coating on the handles gives a comfortable grip while the rubber shock absorber and croissant shaped spring allow for relaxed and precise repetitive hand and wrist movement.

Choose your Felco by assessing your needs. Felco Model 8 is the top of the line model, for medium to large hands and most of your general pruning needs. Model 7 has a revolving handle for easier repetitive use, recommended for heavy pruning. Felco 9 and 10, respectively, are the left handed versions of those mentioned above. For smaller hands try Felco 6, and for smaller jobs or less frequent use we suggest Felco 2, 4 or 5.

While the initial cost is high ($30-$60), the quality and longevity add up to a value unsurpassed.

The performance and lifetime of your shears depend on regular care and maintenance:

1. Clean the blade with a dry cloth after a day of pruning.
2. Oil the spring and shaft of revolving handles daily.
3. Sharpen the blade when you notice that cutting requires extra effort.
4. Adjust the blade alignment when the cut is no longer clean.

We carry a full line of Felco pruning shears and replacement blades, plus springs and bolts for most styles. We also sell oil, sharpening stones and holsters. They can also be sent to the manufacturer for repair and sharpening. Call the Pygar Warehouse, 425-488-3263 for details.

– Heidi