When it comes to trimming plants, shrubs and other greenery, a good hand pruner is a must-have. If you haven't used one in awhile, you may be tempted to buy a cheaper tool. But the truth is that you'll find that using a quality hand pruner will help you transform your unruly bushes.

Hand pruners are a lot easier to use than bigger loppers, so they are a good choice if you're looking for a way to cut back greenery quickly. They're also ideal for cutting off dead or overgrown stems.

The first thing you should look for when shopping for a hand pruner is the type of blade. You want to choose one that is sharp, and is made of stainless steel. Carbon steel blades can stain and corrode easily. A non-stick coating on the blade will prevent sap from sticking, which is a big problem when you're pruning.

Another feature you'll want is an ergonomic handle. These handles are shaped to fit your hand. This will allow you to be comfortable and stay in a consistent position while pruning. The handles should also rotate to make the work easier.

Another feature you'll want to check out is the locking mechanism. Some pruners have a metal coil that locks the blades shut. However, this can get stuck, and you might need to pull the handles apart to make a clean cut.

You can find a wide variety of pruners in different sizes. Some have springs, which help protect your fingers. Others are more like scissors. If you're on a budget, a cheaper pruner will be enough to cut up a few branches, but a more expensive model will be better for more delicate jobs.