Rust is definitely a concern for many people when using hedge shears, and it's vital to do all that you can in order to prevent this issue from building up over time. In general, keeping your shears rust-free is an essential part of shear maintenance, and if you take the time to look after your shears, you shouldn't have to worry about rust. Be sure to wash the shears with a hose or power washer after use to get rid of all dirt and other material from the blades, but don't just let that water sit there when you're done. Dry the shears off in order to prevent rust from settling in.