The air is filled with curses echoing from neighboring yards as newly purchased hand pruners are used for the first, and often the last, time.
Colorful excuses come from reluctant pruners hoping to avoid the job.
Many things in this world are frustrating, but pruning should not be one of them, says Jerry Goodspeed, Extension horticulturist. It can be enjoyable and even relaxing if the proper techniques and tools are used. There are basically two types of hand pruners, Goodspeed explains. The anvil-type pruner has a top blade that cuts against a lower anvil, or flat piece. If not kept sharp, these pruners have a tendency to crush and damage the wood left after a cut.