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Lady using a pole pruner to trim hedge
Keep hedges and trees in shape and looking sharp with help from the right tools.

Get in shape

Safely trim trees, bushes and hedges into the shape you want – tall, short, oval or square – with Ryobi garden tools.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Step 1: Decide on the shape

Assess the shape of the tree or shrub you’re going to tackle and decide on the shape and height you’d like.

Tip: Keep fruit trees lower to reach ripe fruit; with hedges, you might want to keep them tall for privacy.

Long shot photo of garden shrubs, pots and shed

Step 2: Check for pests and disease

Inspect for signs of pests and disease and treat accordingly. For example, common problems on citrus trees include citrus gall wasp, scale and powdery mildew.

Close up of fruit on tree

Step 3: Select your saw

For slicing through thick branches quickly and cleanly, opt for the versatile Ryobi 36V brushless 14-inch chainsaw. For pruning hard-to-reach branches and hedges, the Ryobi 36V pole hedge trimmer and pole pruner attachment are the perfect choice.

Tip: To avoid spreading disease, sterilise the blades of the saws with white spirit before and after pruning.

Ryobi cordless chainsaw being sterilised

Step 4: Cut the thickest branches first

To ensure a clean cut, use the saw to make a small cut on the bottom of the branch, then cut from the top opposite that cut. This prevents the protective cambium layer of the branch from tearing as the branch falls. Apply a prune-sealing paint to the cut to help protect the plant from possible infection and disease.

Ryobi cordless chainsaw cutting branches of tree

Step 5: Trim inner branches for airflow

Good airflow prevents the build-up of moisture on the leaves and allows in more sunshine, helping prevent disease. Increase airflow by pruning some of the smaller branches inside the tree.

Photo of inner branches of tree

Step 6: Shape the tree

Seamlessly shape the plant using your Ryobi 36V pole hedge trimmer for smaller branches and leaves. Step back and admire your handiwork!

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Person wearing PPE shaping tree with Ryobi pole hedge trimmer

For more innovative power tools...

Check out the rest of our Ryobi range.

 

Photo Credit: Ryobi

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.