What Is a Pole Hedge Trimmer

Pole hedge trimmers are a variation of hedge trimmers that are readily available in the market. They are designed specifically for cutting hedges that are too tall to reach using a regular hedge trimmer.

Since hedge trimmers can be dangerous, especially if not used carefully, it is not recommended to use them while standing on a ladder. If you are an experienced gardener, you already know the importance of a pole hedge trimmer.

Untrimmed hedges can make your garden or yard appear untidy and unkempt, which is why it is essential to maintain them frequently. 

There are a lot of brands in the market that manufacture pole hedge trimmers. You can easily find a battery pole hedge trimmer, a gas pole hedge trimmer, and electric pole hedge trimmers in the market. 

Due to their increasing demand, there are several models available, which can make it challenging to decide which one is ideal for you.

This article will cover the specifications and benefits of pole trimmers, along with tips for finding the best pole hedge trimmer that meets your requirements. 

The Purpose of Pole Hedge Trimmers

Pole hedge trimmers, also known as long-reach hedge trimmers, are designed to trim hedges or bushes that stand tall. It is not always possible to reach each and every corner of your hedges, and the untrimmed parts can destroy the overall look of your yard.

This is where pole hedge trimmers come to the rescue. The cutting tool is attached to a long pole, which can allow you to trim hedges that are in hard-to-reach places. 

Mostly, these poles are adjustable in length, allowing you to maneuver them according to the length of the bushes. Some poles can also be adjusted perpendicularly, which means that you can easily reach corners. 

The benefit of pole hedge trimmers is that you don’t need to use ladders to reach tall hedges. Standing on a ladder while operating a hedge trimmer is not recommended, as it can be risky. Even a little imbalance can lead to dangerous accidents, as the blades of hedge trimmers are usually very sharp.

Also, pole hedge trimmers can even be used by older people or those with back problems. Since you need to trim your hedges frequently to make sure your yard appears tidy at all times, it is not smart to hire someone to do the job.

It is a better option to invest in a tool and do the job yourself. If your hedges are located in a place that is hard to reach by a normal hedge trimmer, consider investing in a pole or long-reach hedge trimmer.

Related: What Is a Hedge Trimmer Used For

Types of Pole Hedge Trimmers

There are three main variations of pole hedge trimmers available in the market. These include gas-powered, electric, and rechargeable pole hedge trimmers, and their details are discussed below.

Gas-powered 

Gas-powered pole hedge trimmers are easily the most powerful option out of the three. All you need to do is add fuel to them and follow a specific starting process in order to start them.

These pole hedge trimmers are ideal for trimming large areas as they can get the work done in less time. You can easily target tough and tall hedges, and they are ideal if you need to trim your hedges frequently. Gas-powered pole hedge trimmers are usually preferred by professionals. 

One of the few drawbacks of gas-powered pole hedge trimmers is that they tend to be heavy, which makes them difficult to operate for beginners. If you have never used a hedge trimmer before, we recommend starting off with an electric or cordless option. 

Also, gas-powered pole hedge trimmers can be noisy, especially if you choose an older model. Some people may even get bothered by the odor of gas or fuel, and it is important to keep these factors in mind when you are deciding which pole hedge trimmer to purchase.

Electric

Electric pole hedge trimmers are easier to use than gas-powered ones. This is because they run on electricity, and you don’t need to put in a lot of effort to start the tool. All you need to do is connect it to a power source and turn it on using the power button. 

Another advantage of electric hedge trimmers is that they tend to be lightweight and can be operated by beginners. 

These tools are only suitable for small to medium-sized backyards as they cannot produce as much power as gas-powered ones. 

Also, electric pole hedge trimmers do not require a lot of maintenance as there is no hassle of adding fuel. They don’t make as much noise as gas-powered ones, and some can even be operated without wearing ear protection.

The drawback of electric pole hedge trimmers is that you need a power source nearby at all times to operate them. Since electric plugs are rarely available in yards, you will probably need to use extension wires, which is an added inconvenience, and you will need to take care of them by protecting them from damage.

Related: Can You Use Electric Hedge Trimmer In The Rain

Rechargeable and Cordless

Rechargeable and cordless pole hedge trimmers are the most portable option because they don’t need gas or a constant power source in order to work. They come with batteries and a charger, allowing you to charge them conveniently at home.

Rechargeable pole hedge trimmers are extremely lightweight and can be operated easily, even by beginners. Since no fuel or cables are involved, the chances of accidents are reduced. You can also transport them from one place to another easily.

These hedge trimmers are the least powerful out of the three, which means they are only suitable for small yards and small hedges. They may not effectively trim large or stubborn hedges, so keep this in mind when considering cordless pole hedge trimmers. 

Also, they are not ideal for prolonged usage because they have limited battery life. If the battery runs out, you will need to stop working immediately, and you will need to wait until they are charged fully before you can use them again.

Since battery pole hedge trimmers are still relatively new in the market, they are expensive. If you think the added convenience is worth the extra money and you are getting value for the price, only then should you purchase them.

Related: What Gauge Extension Cord for Hedge Trimmer

What To Look For in a Pole Hedge Trimmer

There are a number of considerations that you should keep in mind if you want to make an informed decision about purchasing pole hedge trimmers. We have discussed the most important ones below.

Durability

When purchasing expensive tools like pole hedge trimmers, it is very important to keep durability in mind. Hedge trimmers are an investment, and they should last you a long time.

Make sure that the materials used in their construction are high-quality so that they don’t wear out easily. Since pole hedge trimmers are meant to be used outdoors, they should be able to withstand different weather conditions with ease.

The pole hedge trimmer you purchase should be able to withstand regular wear and tear, and the blades should be sharp enough to slice the hedges effortlessly instead of causing blunt edges.

Keep in mind that the maintenance of pole hedge trimmers can have a huge impact on how long they stay with you. Don’t forget to get them checked by a professional every year to make sure everything is working perfectly. 

Adjustability

The purpose of pole hedge trimmers is to allow you to reach tall hedges and bushes that are present in difficult corners. The poles attached to these hedge trimmers should be adjustable so that you have the flexibility to target different areas. 

Most pole hedge trimmers allow you to adjust the length of the pole according to the distance you need to cover. This adjustable length also makes the hedge trimmer suitable for individuals of different heights. 

Even older people can benefit from the adjustability as they can calibrate their hedge trimmer according to their comfort level.

Some advanced pole hedge trimmers also allow you to adjust them perpendicularly. This is particularly useful when you want to target difficult-to-reach corners. 

Engine

The engine is the main source of power in a pole hedge trimmer. If the engine is not powerful enough, your pole hedge trimmer will not be efficient.

For this reason, we always recommend purchasing pole hedge trimmers that come with a premium specification power unit, even if they are a bit expensive. It is worth spending a few more dollars if doing so can add significantly to your efficiency.

The benefit of premium power units is that they can easily deliver the torque that is needed to drive the blades through all kinds of materials. 

Also, it is a good idea to purchase a pole hedge trimmer that can start easily. Originally, pole hedge trimmers came with a two-stroke engine, which required a lot of effort and energy to start. As more advanced models were introduced, brands came up with instant and quick start models, which are way more convenient than two-stroke engines. 

Instant and quick start engines are more commonly found in electric and battery pole hedge trimmers, while two-stroke engines usually come with gas-powered hedge trimmers.

Warranty

We always recommend purchasing from brands that provide helpful customer service. Since you are spending so much money on your pole hedge trimmer, you want to make sure everything is in perfect condition when you receive it.

For this reason, never purchase from a brand that does not back its products up with guarantees or warranties. Confirm their return and refund policies before you make your purchase so that the company is liable if you receive a faulty product. 

Also, give preference to companies that have professionals of their own who can help you in case you face any confusion or problems. 

Alternatives To Pole Hedge Trimmers

The only alternative to using a pole hedge trimmer is to use a regular hedge trimmer with a ladder. It is not recommended to use step ladders with hedge trimmers as they do not provide a very stable base for individuals to stand on and trim hedges. 

We recommend using a tripod ladder instead, which comes with three adjustable legs that are spread out, providing a broader and more stable base than step ladders. Using a hedge trimmer while standing on a tripod ladder is much safer than standing on step ladders.

Another advantage of tripod ladders is that they have clawed metal feet that can dig into soft ground and provide a stable base for you to work on. 

Even though using a pole hedge trimmer is the best option, a regular hedge trimmer with a tripod ladder will be the second-best alternative.

Related: How To Use Black and Decker Hedge Trimmer

Top Brands That Manufacture Pole Hedge Trimmers

The list of brands that manufacture pole hedge trimmers is very long, but there are a few brands that stand out from others. We have mentioned three of the top brands on the market that you should consider when purchasing pole hedge trimmers.

Stihl Pole Hedge Trimmer

Stihl pole hedge trimmers are known for their quality and durability. You will find both petrol and battery-operated models, and they even provide telescoping options for added convenience.

These pole hedge trimmers tend to be extremely balanced, which will keep accidents to a minimum. Also, they are comfortable to use for most people, no matter their age, height, or experience. 

Also: How To Use Stihl Hedge Trimmer

Echo Pole Hedge Trimmer

Echo manufactures both professional-grade and home-use pole hedge trimmers, so you will definitely find an option that meets your specific requirements. 

The company focuses on durability, comfort, and balance to keep accidents to a minimum. They even come with gear cases, which are ideal for storing your tool when it is not in use. Their gas-powered models come with advanced cooling technology that can help reduce harmful emissions.

Dewalt Pole Hedge Trimmer

Dewalt is another popular brand when it comes to pole hedge trimmers. With powerful motors and sharp blades, you can enjoy precise and sharp cuts each time.

The pole hedge trimmers manufactured by Dewalt provide a lot of customizability to its customers, making them extremely convenient for use by individuals with different skill levels. The company provides a three-year warranty on almost all their pole hedge trimmers so that you can purchase from them with confidence.