Guide
A crushed cut heals slowly and lets infection in
Sharp secateurs are usually presented as easier on the hands. The real reason is that a clean cut seals within days and a crushed one often does not seal at all.
Why it matters
A clean cut callouses within a few days. A crushed stem stays open, and that is the route by which most pruning-related dieback starts.
Sharpening
Only the bevelled outer face of the cutting blade, at the existing angle, with a fine diamond file. The flat inner face is never touched.
Cleaning
Wipe with methylated spirit between plants when pruning anything diseased. It takes seconds and stops you carrying infection down a whole hedge.
Read the full guideSee the sharpening angle
