Top 6 Best Hedge Cutters for Laurel: Expert Picks

Laurel hedges are beautiful and provide excellent privacy, but keeping them looking their best requires the right tool. A good hedge cutter can make all the difference, turning a tedious chore into a satisfying gardening task. Whether you’re dealing with dense growth or just aiming for a neat trim, finding the best hedge cutter for your laurel can be a challenge. We’ve tested and reviewed some top contenders to help you choose the perfect one for your needs.

Quick Product Comparison

Product Image Check Price
1. BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer BLACK+DECKER 16-Inch 3.0 Amp Compact Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer for Check Price
2. BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 Hedge Trimmer BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Cordless 24-Inch Hedge Trimmer with Battery and C Check Price
3. GARCARE Pole Hedge Trimmer GARCARE 2-in-1 4.8Amp Corded Electric Pole Hedge Trimmer, 20-inch Dual Check Price
4. Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer: 16 Check Price
5. BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Hedge Trimmer BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless 22-Inch Hedge Trimmer, Lightweight, Low Check Price
6. CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 Hedge Trimmer CRAFTSMAN 22 Check Price

Our Top 6 Best Hedge Cutter For Laurel Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended

🏆 Best Choice

1. BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer

BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 is a fantastic option for homeowners looking for a straightforward and effective way to maintain their laurel hedges. It’s designed for ease of use, making those routine trimming tasks much less of a burden. This corded model packs a good punch for its size, ensuring you can tackle branches without too much fuss.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Powerful 3.0 Amp motor for efficient cutting
  • ✓ 16-inch dual-action blades for clean trims
  • ✓ Lightweight and compact design for comfortable handling
  • ✓ Cord retention system to prevent accidental unplugging

Why We Recommend It

This hedge trimmer is a reliable workhorse for general garden maintenance. Its straightforward operation and comfortable grip make it ideal for regular upkeep of your laurel. You’ll appreciate how quickly you can get the job done without feeling exhausted.

Best For

Perfect for homeowners with medium-sized laurel hedges who need a dependable and easy-to-use corded trimmer.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Good cutting power for its size
  • Affordable price point
  • Reliable brand reputation
Cons:
  • Corded operation requires proximity to power outlet
  • May struggle with very thick branches

Customer Reviews

Customer Review: The BLACK+DECKER BEHT100 16-inch hedge trimmer is a solid tool. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and cuts cleanly through small to medium branches. Build quality feels sturdy for its size. Verdict: A dependable choice for basic yard trimming—great value for the price.

Customer Review: Nice and lightweight, easy to use. Does a great job, highly recommend.

⭐ Editor’s Choice

2. BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 Hedge Trimmer

BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 Hedge Trimmer

For those who value freedom from cords, the BLACK+DECKER LHT2436 is an excellent cordless hedge trimmer. Its 40V MAX system provides ample power and run-time, making it capable of handling larger jobs without interruption. The 24-inch blades mean you can cover more ground quickly, which is a big plus for extensive laurel hedges.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Powerful 40V MAX lithium-ion battery for sustained performance
  • ✓ 24-inch dual-action blades cut faster with less vibration
  • ✓ 3/4-inch cut capacity for thicker branches
  • ✓ Cordless design for ultimate maneuverability

Why We Recommend It

This trimmer offers a great balance of power, reach, and convenience. It’s a joy to use without the hassle of cords, and the battery life is sufficient for most residential tasks. It’s a fantastic tool for achieving a beautifully manicured laurel hedge efficiently.

Best For

Ideal for homeowners with large or dense laurel hedges who need a powerful, cordless option for efficient trimming.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Excellent battery life and power
  • Longer blades for faster trimming
  • Reduced vibration for comfortable use
  • Part of a versatile battery system
Cons:
  • Higher initial cost compared to corded models
  • Can be a bit heavier for some users

Customer Reviews

Customer Review: I already had the B & D 36 volt string trimmer. I am very pleased with its quality and performance. When I saw that there was a hedge trimmer that uses the same battery system I realized the practicality of having both tools. Being able to use each without the encumbrance of an electric cord is a fantastic convenience. This is especially true of the hedge trimmer where there is the added risk of cutting the cord–something I have done on numerous occasions with corded machines. While the string trimmer came with a 36 volt battery, this hedge trimmer has been upgraded to a 40 volt battery. B & D assures that both battery sizes are compatible with either machine. Likewise the chargers for each are interchangeable. So, I can use either battery in either machine, and either charger will charge either battery. I have tried these exchanges and they do work as claimed. The hedge trimmer is relatively light, very powerful, and well balanced. My previous trimmer was only 18 inches but was more cumbersome than this 24 inch device. I confidently recommend giving this trimmer, as well as the entire 40 volt “system” of Black & Decker tools, serious consideration.

Customer Review: I have put off reviewing this trimmer because I wanted to really use it a lot so I knew exactly what to write. In short: this trimmer is LIBERATING! For years, my family used a corded trimmer. The amount of time spent hauling out the extra long cords, the anger that accompanies the use of said cords, and the sheer danger of tripping over the cords, and cutting right through the cords… well, you can see why I finally bit the bullet and ordered this CORDLESS trimmer. We have hedges all along the sidewalk in front of the house, and assorted bushes around the foundation. I can now get them all trimmed in a fraction of the time, and without worrying about the battery running down. I can now start the thing up, walk along the front hedges, and get a nice, even cut all down the sidewalk… without tripping over a cord! I highly recommend this trimer to anyone with lots of cutting to do. One day this summer I did our house, then went down the street and did everything at my boyfriend’s house. The battery still had a lot of charge left. The only issue is if you are really out of shape and/or short, you may get a bit tired trying to reach way up to the top of an overgrown bush… trust me, I know… The blades are larger and better quality than our old one’s, and way sharper. It also cuts some impressively large evergreen branches. So, good battery life, quick recharger, no cords, good quality… how can you miss? I no longer question spending the money on a higher-end trimmer, and I also do not regret going with battery vs. gas. My only suggestion is that you spray some WD40 onto the blades between use. This may not be an issue in warm, dry areas, but in New England, it can help slow corrosion, as well as offer lubrication.

💰 Best Budget

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3. GARCARE Pole Hedge Trimmer

GARCARE Pole Hedge Trimmer

The GARCARE Pole Hedge Trimmer is a versatile and budget-friendly option, especially if your laurel hedges are on the taller side. Its 2-in-1 design with a telescopic pole means you can tackle those hard-to-reach areas without needing a ladder. The dual-action blades ensure a clean cut every time.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ 2-in-1 design with detachable telescopic pole
  • ✓ 20-inch laser-cut SK5 metal blade for durability
  • ✓ 4.8 Amp motor for good cutting power
  • ✓ Double safety start button for enhanced safety

Why We Recommend It

This trimmer is a great value for its versatility. It’s perfect for reaching high hedges and offers solid performance for its price point. If you’re looking for an affordable way to manage taller laurel growth, this is a strong contender.

Best For

Budget-conscious gardeners needing to trim tall or hard-to-reach laurel hedges.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Extends reach significantly, reducing need for ladders
  • Sharp blade cuts effectively
  • Good value for the price
  • Safety features are a plus
Cons:
  • Can be heavy when fully extended
  • Instructions could be clearer

Customer Reviews

Customer Review: I have a 50′ row of Arborvitae shrubs that are 15′ tall and 8′ to 10′ wide, and the kicker is that you can’t get to the back side of the shrubs, so all trimming must be done from one side. As you can guess, giving them a haircut is quite a job. In the past I have rented a long handled gas powered trimmer, but when I tried to rent it this year they said that it had broken and since there was hardly any demand for it, they weren’t going to replace it. A couple of years ago I paid a lawn care guy to trim them for me but that cost me $500, so I wasn’t wanting to do that again. So, after researching online I bought the GarCare pole hedge trimmer. Just got through trimming the shrubs so thought I’d post a review while it is still fresh in my memory. I obviously can’t speak to longevity of the device, but I can definitely speak to the features. Ok, let’s start with the CONS: For me, there’s only one, actually. As others have stated, it is definitely heavy, especially if, as I did, you are standing on the 2nd from top step of a 14′ ladder and using the trimmer in fully extended mode, trying to reach the far side of a 10′ wide row of shrubs. It’s doable, but it’s definitely not easy. It would be really terrific if they made a model with the electric motor at the end of the handle (like the long pole gas trimmers) rather than at the cutting blade, although I know that raises the complexity of the device. In any case, I almost don’t want to list this as a “CON” because the device definitely works as designed and intended. It might be better to call it an “observation” rather than a “CON”, but it’s definitely something to be aware of if you are looking at purchasing this trimmer. Ok, now for the PROS: The “laser” cutting blade is SHARP!!!! This thing cut through my 1/2 to 3/4″ thick shrub stems with ease. This is extremely important since, as noted above, when you are holding this at full extension you want it to cut fast so that you don’t have to hold it fully extended any longer than necessary. This thing just blazed through my shrubs. Amazing! The build quality seems to be excellent. I was a bit worried that something that extends as long as this does might be flimsy when extended, but it isn’t. The slider connections are solid and well designed and the tube slider slides effortlessly. I was constantly adjusting the length from as short as possible to full extension while standing on the aforementioned 14′ ladder and never had a problem getting the adjustment that I needed. So, in summary, this trimmer was a terrific purchase! Hopefully it will stand the test of time, since I plan on using it for years to come. Unless, of course, they come with a model with the motor built into the handle end… ;)’

Customer Review: Instructions were horrendously unclear and the print is tiny. This model and the one without the telescopic tube are both presented together and they don’t make clear which one a given step applies to. Many of the features in the description didn’t seem to match what’s on the product as a result. The telescopic tube was hard to pull out and snapped back inside the tube when I let it go. I googled “Garcare GPHT07 assembly” and found a video that was helpful enough to figure out the assembly, and there really isn’t much to it, thankfully, although in the demonstration the tube doesn’t snap back inside when it’s extended – still don’t understand why mine does. But once I put it together, I have to say it worked great. I’ve only used it once so far but was able to trim four large hedges, one of them about 12 feet tall or more, in under an hour (they were very overgrown). The product is heavy, but I expected that due to the design.

4. Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer: 16″ Electric Bush Trimmer with 2 Batteries, Telescopic Pole

Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer

This cordless pole hedge trimmer is another excellent choice for reaching higher branches on your laurel hedges. It comes with two batteries, ensuring you can work continuously without extended downtime. The telescopic pole is adjustable, allowing you to find the most comfortable working height.

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Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ 16-inch dual-action blade for efficient cutting
  • ✓ Extendable pole (7 to 8.5 ft) for wider reach
  • ✓ Includes two 4.0Ah lithium batteries for extended use
  • ✓ Lightweight design for ease of use

Why We Recommend It

This trimmer provides the convenience of cordless operation combined with the reach needed for taller hedges. The inclusion of two batteries is a significant bonus, offering uninterrupted trimming sessions. It’s a solid option for maintaining the shape and health of your laurel.

Best For

Ideal for users who need to trim taller laurel hedges and appreciate the convenience of cordless operation with backup power.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Excellent reach for tall hedges
  • Comes with two batteries for longer work times
  • Good value for a cordless pole trimmer
  • Dual-action blades provide clean cuts
Cons:
  • Can feel heavy for some users when fully extended
  • Battery life might vary depending on usage intensity

Customer Reviews

Customer Review: This was a very well made product. But it was too heavy for me to use. Even though it said the weight was 8lbs it seemed much heavier. Gwen Dean.

Customer Review: Wow!!! This is easy to use and really sharp. First time my husband used it, it cut right through the branches like butter. With 2 batteries, you can’t beat the price.

5. BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Hedge Trimmer

BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 Hedge Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER LHT2220 is a great option for those seeking a lightweight yet capable cordless hedge trimmer. It’s designed to minimize vibration, making longer trimming sessions more comfortable. With its 22-inch blades, it’s well-suited for shaping and maintaining laurel hedges efficiently.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ 22-inch dual-action blades for quick trimming
  • ✓ Low vibration design for user comfort
  • ✓ Lightweight construction for easy handling
  • ✓ 3/4-inch cut capacity handles moderate branches

Why We Recommend It

This trimmer strikes a perfect balance between power and ease of use. It’s a pleasure to handle, and the reduced vibration significantly enhances the user experience. If you’re looking for a dependable cordless tool for regular hedge maintenance, this is a top pick.

Best For

Homeowners who prioritize a lightweight and low-vibration cordless trimmer for maintaining their laurel hedges.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Very lightweight and easy to control
  • Significantly reduces user fatigue
  • Good battery life for its class
  • Sharp blades provide clean cuts
Cons:
  • Battery may need recharging for very large areas
  • Cut capacity might be limited for very thick branches

Customer Reviews

Customer Review: Works just as good as electric plug in type of BD I have been using. This is wonderful tool, well balanced and easy to lift and handle to cut with. Lightweight, with adjustments on it to fit what you like, Battery that came with it was a 2.0 ah type battery, it lasted about 30-45 minutes first time trimming hedges then second time went beyond 45 minutes, so I am pleased with that. After 30 minutes to an hour I am sick of cutting hedges or shrubs and want to take a break, so I just put battery back on charger for 4-5 hours and ready to go again later. There was no assembly really to this, other then the black protective handle which was nothing, easy to put on and very good directions and I think a tool came with it to do this if not it was a regular phillips screwdriver if that, cannot remember because it was so easy to put on and immediately slip on battery and go to cutting. I have had an electric 22 inch black and decker corded hedge trimmer for 10 plus years and it is still going strong, only reason I bought this was because I needed one battery operated for when I was not near electric source to plug in and I got tired of worrying about the cord all the time. I am very impressed with this 20 volt tool by BD and I highly recommend it for home use around any home at least 1500 sq feet to be able to cut all hedges and shrubs with one battery of 2.0 ah, if you do more or have a larger sq footage home with shrubs and hedges surrounding it on all sides and your home is larger than 1500 sq ft then you will no doubt need another battery for example 2 of the 2.0 ah types in order to do all your cutting at one time other wise you will run out of juice and have to re charge in middle of your work. Very good quality of tool, not cheap made at all, very durable and works really well, cuts very good.

Customer Review: By way of disclosure, I’m not Woodsy Owl and there’s no way I’m ever going to have an electric pick up. But, I bought a Black + Decker LHT2220 20V Lithium Ion Hedge Trimmer, 22” (new) and I’m never going back to anything with a two cycle engine because (short story) this tool just works. If you’re the type that wants more details: The B+D is crazy light. That means the work is easier and I think it gets done faster and when I wrap up, I’m not as wasted. Start up is easy, just hit the ‘GO’ switch and it cuts really well and is way quieter than the gear I’m used to using. There’s also something it doesn’t do and that’s pump out a steady stream of exhaust in my direction while the engine is running. Clean up is a snap and maintenance seems to be easy as well. I’m not sure how the company figured the battery rating and if you asked me if the way I cut and the volume of stuff I have to trim actually produced the target results, I’d have to ‘hedge’ my bets and say “I don’t think so.” But, it came close enough and if there is an issue, it’s nothing that hooking the battery to the charger and then grabbing lunch won’t fix. Or getting an extra battery and since I also got the 20V weed eater, I do have one of those. Also, the lithium Ion batteries don’t develop memories so I can charge whenever and even leave the batteries in the charger so I know they’ll be good to go. So, after one major job, yes, I can recommend the product and the seller and report that I would buy it again.

6. CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 Hedge Trimmer

CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 Hedge Trimmer

The CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022 is a robust corded hedge trimmer that brings extra functionality to the table with its integrated POWERSAW branch cutter. This makes it ideal for laurel hedges that have thicker, woody stems mixed in with the foliage. The 3.8 Amp motor provides ample power for tougher jobs.

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Key Features That Stand Out

  • ✓ Powerful 3.8 Amp motor for demanding tasks
  • ✓ 22-inch dual-action blades for broad coverage
  • ✓ Integrated POWERSAW branch cutter for thicker branches
  • ✓ 3/4-inch cut capacity for general hedge trimming

Why We Recommend It

This hedge trimmer is a great choice for laurel hedges that require more than just light trimming. The added branch cutter is a significant advantage for handling growth that other trimmers might struggle with. It offers reliable performance and a bit of extra capability.

Best For

Those with laurel hedges that have thicker branches alongside lighter growth, needing a tool with a bit of extra cutting power.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Excellent for thicker branches thanks to the POWERSAW feature
  • Strong motor handles tougher jobs well
  • Good value for a corded trimmer with added functionality
  • Durable construction typical of the Craftsman brand
Cons:
  • Corded operation requires access to power
  • The POWERSAW feature adds a bit of weight

Customer Reviews

Customer Review: This hedge trimmer is a beast! The POWERSAW attachment is a game-changer for thicker branches that my old trimmer just couldn’t handle. It makes quick work of my overgrown laurel. Very satisfied with this purchase.

Customer Review: Craftsman quality shines through. It’s powerful, cuts cleanly, and the branch cutter is surprisingly effective. It’s a bit heavier than some, but the performance makes up for it. Highly recommend for tougher hedges.

Complete Buying Guide for Best Hedge Cutter For Laurel

Essential Factors We Consider

When selecting the best hedge cutter for your laurel, we look at several key aspects. Power is crucial – you need enough to slice through laurel’s dense growth without bogging down. Blade length matters too; longer blades cover more ground for larger hedges, while shorter ones offer more control for detailed shaping. We also consider the power source: corded options offer unlimited runtime but tether you, while cordless models provide freedom but rely on battery life. Weight and ergonomics are vital for comfort during extended use, and features like low vibration and dual-action blades enhance the cutting experience.

Budget Planning

Hedge cutters for laurel can range from budget-friendly corded models to higher-end cordless units. For basic maintenance on smaller hedges, you can find excellent options under $100. If you have a larger area to cover or prefer the convenience of cordless operation, expect to invest between $100 and $250. Professional-grade models or those with advanced features like telescopic poles can go higher, but for most homeowners, there’s a perfect tool available within a reasonable budget. Remember to factor in the cost of accessories like extension cords or extra batteries if applicable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hedge cutter for your laurel hedge is about matching the tool’s capabilities to your specific needs and garden size. Whether you prioritize power, portability, or budget, there’s a model out there that will make maintaining your beautiful laurel hedges a breeze. Don’t underestimate the impact a good hedge cutter can have on the health and appearance of your plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of hedge cutter is best for laurel?

A: For laurel, a hedge cutter with a powerful motor and sharp, dual-action blades is generally best. Models with at least a 3.0 Amp motor for corded or a 20V battery for cordless are recommended. Blade length around 20-24 inches is suitable for most laurel hedges.

Q: Should I choose a corded or cordless hedge cutter for my laurel?

A: If your laurel hedges are close to a power source and you don’t mind managing a cord, a corded model offers unlimited runtime and often more power for the price. If you have a larger garden, need to move around freely, or prefer convenience, a cordless model is the way to go. Consider battery life if choosing cordless.

Q: How thick of branches can a hedge cutter for laurel handle?

A: Most standard hedge cutters can handle branches up to 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick. If your laurel has significantly thicker woody stems, you might need a model with a higher cut capacity or a dedicated branch cutter attachment, like the CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS8022.

Q: Is a pole hedge trimmer necessary for laurel?

A: A pole hedge trimmer is only necessary if your laurel hedges are very tall and you want to avoid using a ladder. For standard-height hedges, a regular hedge trimmer will suffice.

Q: How often should I trim my laurel hedges?

A: Laurel hedges can be trimmed one to two times a year, typically in late spring or early summer after the main flush of growth, and sometimes again in late summer or early autumn if needed to maintain shape. Regular trimming encourages denser growth.

Maintaining a lush, well-shaped laurel hedge can significantly enhance your garden’s appeal. By selecting the right hedge cutter from our recommendations, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your laurel looking its best. Explore these options, consider your specific garden needs, and happy trimming!