An inescapable fact is that your garden tool kit needs to be able to tackle the growth of plants, shrubs, and grasses to keep your garden looking healthy and tidy, and that includes looking after your hedges with a hedge trimmer. Trimming the garden hedge with some garden shears is hard work and will not get the job done as fast or as cleanly as specifically designed hedge trimmers. Investing in a set will transform your unkempt hedge into a perfectly preened outdoor feature. If you are on the hunt for the best DIY tools to keep your hedges looking good but don't know where to start, then we have researched the best hedge trimmers so you can get started.
The best hedge trimmers will create a clean, even, and neat cut and can manoeuvre around tricky angles, so you don't have to worry about dealing with the small details.
The best hedge trimmers at a glance
Best all-round hedge trimmer: Ryobi ONE+ 18V 500mm Cordless Hedge Trimmer - View on B&Q
Best for adjustability: Mcculloch HT Petrol Hedge Trimmer - View on Amazon UK
Best petrol hedge trimmers: Husqvarna Hedge Trimmer - View Amazon UK
It’s also important to think about what you need from your tool. Things to consider include hedge height, the proximity of power sockets to your garden, and more. Usually, hedge trimmers are used for 'light work' on branches and bushes. Tidying up and shaping shrubs is another of their functions. However, heavy-duty work is more suited to garden loppers for breaking down bigger branches and thicker bushes. Though one cannot be substituted for the other, both tools are necessary for perfect hedge maintenance.
We have compiled our top picks of petrol, battery, and electric hedge trimmers based on prices, ease of use, and capabilities to help you on your way.
The best hedge trimmers
Best all-round hedge trimmer
www.diy.com
This well-rounded hedge trimmer is designed to be lightweight and comfortable to use. The ONE+ Cordless 50cm hedge trimmer is ideal for maintaining medium-sized hedges and shrubs. The 50cm blade with a 24mm blade gap provides enough power to tackle even larger hedges. Plus, the HedgeSweep™ attachment delivers easy removal of clippings.
Tried and tested by Group Commerical Content Editor Adam Binnie: "Our hedges grow at an extraordinary rate and at an annoyingly large distance from the plug socket in the garage, meaning the job of keeping them trimmed over the summer is an extension lead-tangling headache.
"As such, I put it off until they're in such a state that I have to dedicate the best part of a Saturday to sorting them out. As with all battery-powered tools, the fact I can just pop out for ten minutes with this Ryobi 50cm hedge trimmer now and then with no annoying wires to untangle or trip over means I can keep on top of it.
"With its newly designed in-line handle, it's very comfortable to use for a long period, and its 2.4kg is well distributed and balanced, so it's an easy thing to wield. Ryobi says it'll work for 64 minutes between charges - I've had 40 minutes out of it with no bother, and always put the battery back on charge after using it anyway.
"That's partly down to the Ryobi's only flaw - there's no lock or safety switch to stop one of my kids from picking it up and trimming something I'd rather they didn't. The only way to prevent this is to remove the battery.
"Other than that it's solidly constructed and an ergonomic bit of kit. I like the way the sweeper bar brushes the clippings off the top of the hedge - previously, I'd have to shake them off, which was annoying.
"Best of all it uses the same battery and charger as my other Ryobi kit, keeping the cost of purchase down and reducing the number of things plugged into my garage sockets."
Pros
- Comfortable handling for long periods of time
- Wireless
Cons
- No lock or safety switch
| Includes: | 1 x 2.0Ah Battery, 1 x 1.5A Charger, 1 x HedgeSweep Attachment, 1 x Blade Sheath |
| Blade length: | 50cm |
| Charge time: | 60 mins |
| Weight: | 2.4kg |
Best for adjustability
If you are looking for a petrol-driven hedge trimmer with dual-action blades to make quick work of cutting the hedge, then the Mcculloch HT 5622 is a great choice. The blade will cut through leaves easily and leave a neater finish. The product claims to have a soft start and an adjustable rear handle, allowing you to cut vertically through the hedge comfortably. However, if you have been used to using an electric trimmer, you might find the McCulloch a bit heavier to use.
Pros
- Anti-vibration system
- Adjustable rear handle
Cons
- On the heavier side
| Includes: | 1 x McCulloch HT 5622 Petrol Hedge Trimmer |
| Blade length: | 56cm |
| Charge time: | n/a |
| Weight: | 5.2 kg |
Best petrol hedge trimmer
The Husqvarna is the best petrol-powered hedge trimmer on the list and claims to be quieter than its competitors. It is one of the higher-end products that we have mentioned, but if a petrol hedge trimmer is what you are on the hunt for, then this powerful tool is a great choice for those who are willing to invest in the long term. The blade is 59cm, which makes it easy to neaten up the hedges and shrubs. Plus, the Smart Start feature allows for an easy user experience so that you can work for prolonged periods comfortably
Pros
- Low noises
- Adjustable rear handle
Cons
- Struggles at full throttle
| Includes: | Husqvarna 122HD60 21.7 Hedge Trimmer |
| Blade length: | 59cm |
| Charge time; | n/a |
| Weight: | 6.5 kg |
Best for tall hedges
This Ryobi cordless battery-powered hedge trimmer is made with tall hedges in mind. This trimmer features a four-position articulating head that enables you to trim hedges of all shapes and sizes, so there is no need to get out the step ladder next time you need to prune the hedge. The battery operation means there's no cord to contend with, and if you have other bits of Ryobi ONE kit, the battery is interchangeable with them.
Pros
- Rotating rear handle
- Lightweight
Cons
- Battery needs to be purchased as an extra
| Includes: | Ryobi OHT1850X 18V ONE+ Cordless 50cm Hedge Trimmer (Body Only) or options for additional batteries, compact charger and grass trimmer |
| Blade length: | 59cm |
| Charge time: | n/a |
| Weight: | 3.2 kg |
Best lightweight trimmer
If you are after a battery-powered appliance, then this trimmer from Bosch is perfect for medium-sized hedges. It is also incredibly lightweight compared to some other options, weighing 2.5kg, and courtesy of its multi-position front handle, it will allow you to cut in different positions and through branches up to 25mm in diameter. This tool is comfortable to use even for long periods, and the anti-blocking system makes it a swift and effective power tool
Pros
- Cordless and lightweight
- Multi-position handle
Cons
- The battery needs to be purchased in addition
| Includes: | Bosch Cordless Hedge Cutter (battery extra) |
| Blade length: | 50cm |
| Charge time: | n/a |
| Weight: | 2.5 kg |
Best battery powered
Another great battery-powered option is this Makita trimmer, which is equipped with an anti-vibration structure, a stain-free shear blade surface and a rubberised soft grip for the best support and comfort. Additionally, the lightweight build makes for secure manoeuvring. In terms of the blade, the sharpness will allow you to really get in there and tidy up the hedge properly.
Pros
- Lightweight anti-vibration structure
- Easy to manoeuvre
Cons
- Not the most powerful
| Includes: | DUH523Z Hedge Trimmer 18V Bare Unit |
| Blade length: | 52 cm |
| Charge time: | n/a |
| Weight: | 3.3 kg |
Best budget option
This little affordable tool is great for cleaning up and forming hedges. With a battery life of 50 minutes, it guarantees you'll finish all your gardening chores in no time at all. The tool's lightweight structure makes it easy to hold, and the 2-in-1 feature allows you to switch between two blades quickly. This handheld hedge trimmer is ideal if you want a lightweight option without the large price tag.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to switch between blades
Cons
- Not as high-quality
| Includes: | NETTA 7.2V Cordless 2-in-1 Lithium-Ion Grass and Hedge Trimmer |
| Blade length: | n/a |
| Charge time: | n/a |
| Weight: | 1.3 kg |
Best value for money
www.very.co.uk
The hedge trimmer that offers the best value for money on this list has to be the Flymo Easicut Hedge Trimmer. Flymo has created this very reasonably priced electric hedge trimmer, which comes with a two-year warranty. Additionally, the 10m cable makes it suitable for smaller gardens, and the central handle has been designed for safe and secure use.
Pros
- Most lightweight on this list
- Two-year warranty
- 10m metre
Cons
- The shortest cutting blade on this list
| Includes: | DUH523Z Hedge Trimmer 18V Bare Unit |
| Blade length: | 45 cm |
| Charge time: | N/a |
| Weight: | 1.3 kg |
How we chose the best hedge trimmers
All of these hedge trimmers have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered the type of blades, handles, and usability in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching hedge trimmers to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.
FAQs
What types of hedge trimmers are available?
Hedge trimmers come in three main types: petrol, electric (corded), and battery-operated (cordless). Petrol-powered trimmers are powerful and suitable for large jobs, electric trimmers are lightweight and good for smaller gardens, and cordless trimmers offer flexibility without needing to be near a power socket.
How do I maintain my hedge trimmer?
Regular maintenance should include cleaning the blades after each use, checking for loose screws or bolts, sharpening the blades when required, and, for petrol trimmers, checking the fuel and oil levels. Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
Can hedge trimmers be used on wet hedges?
It's generally advised to avoid trimming wet hedges. Wet leaves and branches can cause the trimmer to slip, reducing cutting efficiency and increasing the risk of injury. Wet conditions can also damage electric trimmers.
How do I sharpen the blades on a hedge trimmer?
Blades can be sharpened using a mill file, a rotary tool with a grinding stone, or by taking them to a professional. Ensure the trimmer is unplugged or the battery is removed before starting, and follow the angle of the existing edge while sharpening.
What safety precautions should I take when using a hedge trimmer?
Wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection. Keep both hands on the trimmer during use, clear the work area of obstacles, and always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
Can I use a hedge trimmer to cut branches?
Hedge trimmers are designed for cutting leaves and small branches, typically up to about ¾ inch thick. For thicker branches, a pruning saw or a chainsaw is more appropriate.
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Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in sustainable living and health. She lives and breathes all things natural health, cooking and nature.