Laurel hedges present a distinct challenge with regards to the maintenance and trimming of them. Not only does laurel have a tendency to grow wildly out of control and become thick, this evergreen plant sprouts high.
And no doubt, if you have laurel on your property, you’re prepping to trim your hedges. But what is the best hedge trimmer to get this job done? As somebody who has worked extensively with power tools, I can tell you in order to effectively trim tall laurel bushes, you will need a model with a very long guide bar.
Additionally, the hedge trimmer you use for laurel must also have a motor that is powerful enough to cut quickly and through the toughest growth without much frustration.
What is the best hedge trimmer for laurel? After considering dozens of models manufactured by different companies, I have come to the conclusion that the Husqvarna 115iHD55 40V 22-in. Brushless Dual-Blade Hedge Trimmer is the best choice for trimming laurel.
You can get it from Amazon.com.
First off, Husqvarna is one of the most trusted names in power tools. Secondly, this hedge trimmer has a 22-inch blade that is very sharp. Later in the article, I will go into greater detail as to why this is the best one.
Husqvarna 115iHD55 40V 22-in. Brushless Dual-Blade Hedge Trimmer
This model has many good things going for it, one of which is Save Mode. Save Mode allows the user to get the most out of their run time by allowing the motor to work more efficiently.
Yes, efficiency is the buzzword here. The Husqvarna 115iHD55 features a brushless electric motor that is specifically designed to deliver high efficiency, so you won’t be wasting time or energy.
This model has more battery life than other similar units. As you’re probably aware, it is advisable to have two batteries on hand at all times. A red-light indicator will come on warning you that your battery life is low.
You should have another fully charged battery ready to go before placing the spent one in the charger.
As stated above, the Husqvarna 115iHD55 has a 22 – inch guide bar that along with dual-action blades enables the user to have extended reach as well as low vibration. When trimming hedges or long periods, you want to be comfortable.
Other advantages of the Husqvarna 115iHD55
The fact that this model is considerably less noisy than others makes it perfect for working in areas where population density is higher, such as the suburbs.
When it comes to trimming laurel, not only do you need a trimmer that has a long guide bar, you also need a model that is light enough, so you can maneuver easily. This model weighs in at 7.5 pounds.
Personally, I find this trimmer to be one of the best I’ve ever used. At home, there are no more excuses about trimming our hedges. It starts with minimal effort and doesn’t quit like other units do.
For those of you who perhaps are not mechanically inclined and know little about maintenance of a trimmer, I can’t recommend a better unit. It will cut through those thick hedges with ease.
Trimming laurel with the Husqvarna 115iHD55
There are laurel hedging plants that grow to be as high as 20 feet, or seven meters. Again, even with the 22 – inch guide bar, you may need to stand on a ladder or hydraulic platform to effectively trim the tallest parts of the hedge.
As far as when you should trim your laurel hedge, it is highly recommended to do so in the late spring or early summer. The reason for doing this is that the hedge will produce new shoots very quickly during this season, thereby covering up any leaves that are left looking disheveled or shabby after you’re done trimming.
Characteristics of laurel
What is laurel? Laurel is an evergreen that grows quick – and thick. Some homeowners don’t like conifer hedges such as leylandii, so they opt for laurel instead. Laurel is a popular shrub used for hedges or living screens.
Laurels vary in size and color. Some have dark green or bright leaves while others have variegated leaves.
I have seen many living screens, and they are very attractive and appealing if regularly maintained.
Laurel should be trimmed or pruned on a regular basis. If it grows too big, it isn’t too hard to cut it back – even back to the stump. It will simply re-grow into a new hedge.
Most soils are suitable for laurel to flourish in. This hedge grows in full sun or heavy shade. If anything can be said about this evergreen is that it is highly adaptable.
There are different types of Laurel plants, some of which include the Common Laurel, also known as the Cherry, the Portugal Laurel as well as the Bay Laurel.
Laurel hedges and screens are excellent because they provide privacy, act as a windbreak and cut down noise. If you care about the environment, you’ll be eager to grow a laurel hedge. They reduce air pollution from traffic and provide food and shelter for wildlife.
Gas-powered, battery-operated or electric trimmer?
Each of the three categories have their advantages and disadvantages. While gas-powered trimmers are naturally more powerful due to the engine capacity, using them for extended periods will tire out your arms. Furthermore, gas-powered models are noisy, therefore making them unsuitable for suburban environments.
Electric trimmers are an excellent choice, except that you run the risk of cutting the cord or the cord continually unplugging. Some newer models contain a feature that locks the plug into place while you’re working.
In my opinion, cordless is the way to with hedge trimmers these days if you are working from a ladder or platform to reach the tops of high hedges. Cordless may by slightly heavier, but this disadvantage is offset by the fact that you don’t have to drag about a cord.
Conclusion
Trimming a large laurel hedge doesn’t have to be a laborious chore if you have the right type of trimmer. The Husqvarna 115iHD55 is your best bet for maintaining laurel hedges and even cutting them into box shapes.