Arthur R.

Arthur Redman has spent the past seven years with his hands in the soil, first as a landscape gardener and now as a writer focused on plants, growing, and garden spaces. Based in Somerset, he writes with a practical eye and a quiet respect for the changing seasons. When he's not tending to his own unruly plot, he's reading about old planting methods or chasing down overlooked native species. His work is rooted in what actually works in UK gardens, not just what looks good on a mood board.

5 Best Hedge Trimmers for Thick Branches in the UK

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Finding the right hedge trimmer for tackling thick branches can be a challenging task, especially with the variety of options available on the market. A good hedge trimmer should offer not only the power to cut through dense foliage but also precision and ease of use to ensure a neat and tidy finish. Whether you’re dealing with overgrown hedges, shrubs, or small trees, having a tool that can handle the job efficiently is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top five hedge trimmers specifically designed for thick branches, helping you make an informed decision for your gardening needs.

Top Hedge Trimmers for Cutting Thick Branches

 

Top Pick

Features

  • Stroke length: 20mm
  • Battery voltage: 18V
  • Quick-cut system
  • Patented Anti-Blocking System
  • Lightweight at 2.5 kg
  • Multi-position front handle with transparent hand guard
  • Laser-cut blades for cutting branches up to 25mm in diameter
  • Blade length: 100cm

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • Ergonomic design allows for comfortable use, even during extended trimming sessions
  • Enhanced safety with a tip protector and see-through hand guard
  • Efficient cutting with continuous operation thanks to the Anti-Blocking System

Performance

  • Effortlessly trims thick branches up to 25mm in diameter
  • Provides smooth cutting without interruptions, even on dense foliage
  • The cordless design and 2.5 kg weight make it easy to handle without fatigue

Summary

This hedge trimmer provides efficient and effortless cutting, thanks to its quick-cut system and Anti-Blocking System. The cordless design and lightweight build make it convenient to use in various positions. The robust construction ensures durability, allowing for precise and continuous trimming.

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Best Value for money

Features

  • Blade length: 61cm
  • Cuts branches up to 27mm thick
  • Anti-jam system
  • 3000 spm (strokes per minute)
  • Pivoting trimmer head with a 125° range
  • Lightweight at 2.8 kg
  • Compatible with 40V 2Ah or 4Ah battery

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • Versatile trimming angles with the pivoting head, adjustable by up to 125°
  • Superior cutting efficiency with dual-action blades and 3000 spm
  • Compact and lightweight design for easy handling

Performance

  • Effortlessly cuts through thicker branches up to 27mm
  • Precise trimming of both vertical and horizontal hedges

Summary

With a 61cm dual-action blade and powerful performance, this hedge trimmer offers smooth and quick cutting of thick branches. Its lightweight and compact design, combined with a pivoting head, ensures comfortable and precise trimming. The anti-jam system enhances cutting efficiency, making it a reliable tool for maintaining your garden.

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Best lightweight design

Features

  • 55cm dual-action laser-cut blades
  • 19mm cutting gap
  • Wrap-around auxiliary handle
  • Compact and lightweight at 2 kg

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • Extended runtime of up to 75 minutes
  • Durable and impact-resistant design
  • Comfortable grip with multiple orientations

Performance

  • Efficient trimming with laser-cut blades for sharp, precise cuts
  • Long-lasting performance, perfect for extended garden work
  • Excellent durability, ideal for tough environments

Summary

This hedge trimmer is designed for durability and performance, featuring laser-cut blades and a compact, lightweight design. It offers an extended runtime and a comfortable grip for prolonged use. The trimmer is ideal for precise and efficient hedge maintenance, delivering consistent results.

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best budget

Features

  • 710W motor
  • 61cm precision blades
  • 180° rotating handle
  • Lightweight at 3.75 kg
  • 10m cable length
  • Dual-action steel blades

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • Ergonomically designed for comfort and ease of use
  • Versatile trimming angles with a 180° rotating handle
  • Long power cable for extended reach

Performance

  • Quickly trims branches and twigs up to 24mm thick with precision
  • Reduces hand fatigue with its lightweight and ergonomic design
  • Ensures safe and efficient operation with its two-stage safety trigger

Summary

A powerful 710W motor and dual-action blades make this hedge trimmer highly efficient for cutting through thick branches. Its ergonomic design and rotating handle allow for versatile and comfortable use. The trimmer’s safety features and lightweight build ensure a smooth and reliable trimming experience.

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Features

  • 56cm blade length
  • Dual blade speed of 1280 rpm
  • Laser-cut and diamond-cut steel blades
  • Lightweight at 2.5 kg
  • Double safety switch design
  • Shock guard and protective case

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • High precision and durability with diamond-cut blades
  • Safe operation with double safety switches
  • Easy handling with its lightweight build

Performance

  • Fast and clean cutting of branches up to 20mm thick
  • Comfortable to use, especially for beginners and those with limited strength
  • Secure storage and transport with its robust protective case

Summary

This hedge trimmer delivers fast and clean cuts with its high-quality, laser-cut blades. Lightweight and ergonomically designed, it offers ease of use for extended periods. The trimmer also features multiple safety guarantees, ensuring reliable and precise performance in various garden tasks.

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Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Hedge Trimmer for Thick Branches

When selecting a hedge trimmer capable of handling thick branches, several features should be considered:

  • Blade Length and Tooth Gap: Longer blades with wider tooth gaps are essential for cutting thick branches. The length of the blade determines how much area you can cover in a single sweep, while a wider tooth gap allows the trimmer to handle thicker branches more effectively.

  • Weight and Ergonomics: Hedge trimming can be a physically demanding task, so choosing a trimmer that is well-balanced and not too heavy is crucial. Look for models with ergonomic handles and adjustable features to reduce strain during extended use.

how to sharpen hedge trimmer blades?

Sharpening your hedge trimmer blades is essential for maintaining their cutting efficiency and prolonging the life of your tool. Sharp blades make cleaner cuts, reducing the strain on the motor and preventing damage to plants. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sharpen hedge trimmer blades:

  1. Safety First: Before you begin, ensure the hedge trimmer is completely turned off and disconnected from any power source. For electric models, unplug them from the outlet, and for battery-powered models, remove the battery. 

  2. Clean the Blades: Use a stiff brush or cloth to remove any debris, sap, or dirt from the blades. This helps to see the edges clearly and prevents any obstruction during the sharpening process. If there is a lot of sticky residue, consider using a solvent like a mixture of water and mild detergent or a commercial blade cleaner.

  3. Secure the Trimmer: Place the hedge trimmer on a stable surface, such as a workbench. Use clamps to secure the tool firmly in place, ensuring the blades are positioned for easy access and sharpening. This prevents the trimmer from moving while you work, reducing the risk of injury.

  4. Sharpen the Blades: Using a flat file or a sharpening stone, align the file with the angle of the existing edge of each blade tooth. File in a single, smooth motion away from your body, following the original bevel angle of the blade. It’s important to maintain the original angle to ensure the blades cut efficiently. Sharpen each tooth uniformly, applying even pressure to avoid uneven edges.

  5. Remove Burrs: After sharpening the main cutting edge, turn the blade over and use a flat file or honing stone to remove any burrs that have formed on the underside. Burrs are small bits of metal that can affect the smooth operation of the blades. Lightly pass the file along the bottom of the blade to smooth out any rough spots.

  6. Lubricate the Blades: Once the sharpening is complete, apply a light coat of lubricant or machine oil to the blades. This helps to prevent rust and ensures the blades move smoothly during operation. Wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth.

  7. Reassemble and Test: After sharpening and lubricating, reassemble any parts that were removed and reconnect the power source. Test the hedge trimmer on a small section of branches to ensure it is cutting smoothly and effectively. If the cuts are not clean, you may need to repeat the sharpening process.

 

Best Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mowers in the UK

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When it comes to maintaining a neat and tidy garden, having the right tools makes all the difference. For those looking to simplify their lawn care routine, a self-propelled cordless lawn mower offers both convenience and efficiency. With no cords to worry about and the added benefit of self-propulsion, these mowers allow you to effortlessly navigate your garden.

In this guide, we will explore some of the best self-propelled cordless lawn mowers available, helping you to find the perfect option to keep your lawn in top condition.

High-Performance Self-Propelled Cordless Mowers

Top Pick

Features

  • Battery-powered with two 24V 4Ah batteries
  • 46cm cutting width
  • 7 cutting height positions (25mm to 80mm)
  • 55L grass collection bag
  • Self-propelled operation
  • 3-in-1 mulching, side discharge, or collection
  • Brushless motor for longer lifespan and efficiency
  • Steel deck construction
  • 3-year guarantee

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • Large lawn coverage of up to 480m² on a single charge
  • Versatile cutting options: mulch, collect, or side discharge
  • Comfortable, foldable handle for easy storage

Performance

  • Effortlessly handles large lawns without the need for frequent recharging
  • Self-propelled feature makes it simple to manoeuvre, even on uneven terrain
  • Provides a clean and precise cut across various grass lengths
  • Quiet operation with reduced environmental impact compared to petrol mowers

Summary

A powerful and efficient mower designed for large gardens. It offers robust construction and versatile cutting options. Quiet and environmentally friendly with long-lasting performance.

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Best Value for money

Features

  • Battery-powered with a 56V 5Ah battery
  • 47cm cutting width
  • 3 cutting height positions
  • Variable speed wheel drive
  • LED headlights for low-light conditions
  • 2-in-1 function: mulching or grass collection
  • Rapid charger included

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • High power output comparable to petrol mowers
  • Quiet operation with no exhaust fumes
  • Quick and efficient mowing with a large grass collection bag
  • Compact, foldable design for easy storage

Performance

  • Delivers up to 50 minutes of runtime on a single charge, perfect for medium-sized gardens
  • Variable speed control allows you to adjust the pace for optimal cutting
  • Smooth and quiet mowing experience, even during early mornings or late evenings
  • LED headlights ensure visibility in low-light conditions

Summary

This mower delivers impressive power and convenience. It combines quiet operation with practical features like variable speed and LED headlights. Ideal for efficient and precise mowing.

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Best for medium-sized gardens

Features

  • Battery-powered with a 56V 5Ah battery
  • 47cm cutting width
  • 7 cutting height positions (20mm to 80mm)
  • 55L grass collection bag
  • Polymer deck for durability and reduced weight
  • Self-propelled drive
  • 3-in-1 function: mulching, rear discharge, or grass collection
  • Ergonomic controls
  • LED lights

KEY ADVANTAGES

  • Lightweight polymer deck ensures easy manoeuvrability
  • Quiet motor with low vibrations for comfortable use
  • Adjustable cutting height for a tailored lawn finish
  • Ample 55L collection bag with easy emptying mechanism

Performance

  • Effortlessly handles sloped and hilly lawns thanks to the self-propelled drive
  • Smooth, quiet operation with minimal vibrations
  • Effective cutting and collection, reducing the need for frequent stops
  • The 47cm cutting width allows precise navigation around obstacles

Summary

A lightweight yet durable mower with smooth, quiet operation. It handles various terrains with ease and provides excellent cutting performance. Designed with user-friendly features for an effortless mowing experience.

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Advantages of Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mowers

Self-propelled cordless lawn mowers offer several advantages that make them an attractive option for many gardeners. Here are some key benefits:

  • Ease of Use: Self-propelled mowers take the physical effort out of mowing by driving themselves forward. This feature is especially beneficial for those with larger lawns or uneven terrain, as it reduces the strain on the user.
  • Cordless Convenience: With no cords to worry about, you can mow without the limitations of reach or the risk of tripping over wires. This is particularly useful for gardens with obstacles like trees or flower beds.
  • Eco-Friendly Operation: Cordless mowers are typically powered by rechargeable batteries, making them a more environmentally friendly option compared to petrol mowers. They produce no emissions and are often quieter, reducing noise pollution.
  • Low Maintenance: Unlike petrol mowers, cordless models require minimal maintenance. There’s no need for oil changes, fuel refills, or spark plug replacements. Simply charge the battery and you’re ready to go.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing the best self-propelled cordless lawn mower, it’s important to consider a few key features that can make a significant difference in performance and user experience:

  • Battery Life and Charging Time: The battery is the heart of a cordless mower. Look for models with long battery life to ensure you can mow your entire lawn on a single charge. Additionally, consider the charging time—some batteries can take several hours to fully recharge, which might be inconvenient if you need to mow frequently.
  • Cutting Width and Height Adjustments: The cutting width determines how much grass the mower can cut in a single pass. Wider cutting widths reduce the number of passes needed, making mowing quicker. Height adjustment options allow you to choose the grass length, which is useful for different lawn conditions.
  • Durability and Build Quality: A robust, well-built mower will last longer and perform better over time. Look for mowers with high-quality materials, particularly in the deck and wheels, as these components endure the most wear and tear.
  • Ergonomics and User Comfort: Features such as adjustable handles, easy-to-access controls, and cushioned grips can enhance comfort and reduce fatigue during use. This is particularly important if you have a larger lawn that requires extended mowing sessions.
  • Mulching and Bagging Options: Some mowers offer mulching capabilities, which finely chop the grass and redistribute it back onto the lawn as a natural fertilizer. Others come with bagging options to collect grass clippings for easy disposal. Consider what’s more important for your lawn care routine.

Are self-propelled cordless lawn mowers powerful enough for large lawns?

Yes, many self-propelled cordless lawn mowers are powerful enough to handle large lawns, especially those with high-capacity batteries and efficient brushless motors. However, for very large lawns, it’s important to ensure that the battery life and cutting width are sufficient to cover the area without needing multiple charges.

Some users may prefer petrol mowers for extremely large or challenging terrains, but advancements in cordless technology have made these mowers increasingly capable for a wide range of lawn sizes.

How long does the battery last on a self-propelled cordless lawn mower?

The battery life of a self-propelled cordless lawn mower varies depending on the model, battery capacity, and mowing conditions. On average, a fully charged battery can last between 30 to 60 minutes. However, this can be affected by factors such as the length and thickness of the grass, as well as the terrain. If you have a larger lawn, consider investing in a model with a longer battery life or purchasing an additional battery to extend your mowing time.