Arborvitae hedges are beautiful, offering privacy and a lush green backdrop to any garden. Keeping them perfectly shaped requires the right tool. A good hedge trimmer can make all the difference, transforming a chore into a satisfying task. We’ve rounded up some of the best hedge trimmers that are perfect for tackling arborvitae, ensuring clean cuts and a manicured look without excessive effort.
Quick Product Comparison
| Product | Image | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Dewalt Hedge Trimmer |  |
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| 2. Hedge Trimmer 2-in-1 |  |
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| 3. Milwaukee Hedge Trimmer |  |
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| 4. Bosch Isio Hedge Trimmers |  |
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Our Top 4 Best Hedge Trimmer For Arborvitae Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Dewalt Hedge Trimmer
The Dewalt Hedge Trimmer is built for serious work, offering a powerful brushless motor and a rotatable handle that makes it incredibly versatile for shaping those dense arborvitae. If you have a lot of trimming to do or demanding branches, this tool won’t let you down. It’s designed for durability and consistent performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful brushless motor for efficient trimming.
- ✓ 52cm dual-action blade handles most shrubbery needs.
- ✓ Rotatable handle for comfortable, precise cuts at various angles.
- ✓ Compatible with Dewalt 20V batteries for convenience.
Why We Recommend It
This Dewalt trimmer is a top pick for its robust construction and the ability to handle tougher jobs with ease. The ergonomic handle design means less fatigue, even during long trimming sessions, making it ideal for maintaining large or established arborvitae hedges. It’s a tool that truly performs.
Best For
Homeowners and landscapers who need a reliable, high-performance hedge trimmer for frequent or demanding use on dense shrubs like arborvitae. If you value power and comfort, this is a fantastic option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent cutting power.
- Ergonomic and versatile handle.
- Durable construction for long-term use.
- Great for thick branches and dense foliage.
Cons:
- Battery and charger sold separately.
- Can be a bit heavy for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Used it on a huge landscape job, worked great, paid for itself.”
Customer Review: “I am a home owner with mature landscaping. The hedge trimmer worked as well as my B&D trimmer without being tethered by an extension cord. Caveat is this is first time use we will have to see how the battery holds up over time. Battery did well on first use with substantial charge remaining on initial use.”
2. Hedge Trimmer 2-in-1
This 2-in-1 Cordless Hedge Trimmer offers great value, coming with two batteries and a charger so you’re never caught without power. It’s versatile enough to handle your arborvitae and can even double as a grass trimmer. This makes it a smart choice for those looking for a multi-functional tool.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 2 batteries and a charger for continuous work.
- ✓ Double-sided blades for efficient cutting on both passes.
- ✓ Combines hedge trimming and grass trimming functions.
- ✓ Comes with a durable toolbox for easy storage and transport.
Why We Recommend It
We love that this trimmer comes as a complete package, ready to go right out of the box. It provides consistent power for trimming your arborvitae and the included accessories make it incredibly user-friendly. It’s a well-rounded option for maintaining a neat garden.
Best For
Homeowners seeking a comprehensive and convenient solution for hedge trimming and light garden maintenance, especially those who appreciate the inclusion of extra batteries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with included batteries and charger.
- Versatile 2-in-1 functionality.
- Good for general hedge trimming tasks.
- Portable and easy to store.
Cons:
- May not be powerful enough for very thick or old branches.
- Blade guards are flimsy cardboard.
- Might feel a bit heavy for some individuals.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Easy to use and performed as well as or better than my corded trimmer. Blade teeth alloy is very hard and withstood catching on a chain link fence.”
Customer Review: “I haven’t used it yet but it is heavier than I thought it would be. I am 74 and I’m sure that if I was a few years younger and didn’t have any medical issues I would be very happy with it. I guess I should also mention that I’m female lol. I also have a hard time changing the blades but I mainly bought it for the hedge trimmer so I don’t think I will be changing them very often. I don’t know if I would recommend them for elderly females but I might change my mind once I use them! The main reason I bought them was because I am switching most of my tools for battery operated ones so I don’t have to mess with power cords or gas and most of them are very lightweight and easy to use! I also like the fact that there are 2 batteries. I also wish there were heavy plastic guards for the blades, they have cardboard over them and I don’t think that will last very long. I may add more to this once I have used them which should be soon.”
3. Milwaukee Hedge Trimmer
For those on a budget who still want reliable performance, this Milwaukee Hedge Trimmer is a fantastic find. It’s designed to be compatible with Milwaukee M18 batteries, offering a powerful brushless motor and a rotatable handle that aids in getting those precise cuts on your arborvitae. It balances cost-effectiveness with solid functionality.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compatible with Milwaukee M18 batteries.
- ✓ Brushless motor for up to 2000 RPM cutting speed.
- ✓ 22.4-inch dual-action blades for extended reach.
- ✓ Rotatable handle for versatile trimming angles.
Why We Recommend It
This trimmer offers excellent features for its price point. The compatibility with a widely used battery system is a huge plus, and the overall performance is impressive for a budget-friendly option. It’s a great choice for anyone starting their garden tool collection or looking to add a capable hedge trimmer without breaking the bank. For anyone seeking the best hedge trimmer for budget buyers, this is definitely worth considering.
Best For
Budget-conscious gardeners who own Milwaukee M18 tools and need an effective hedge trimmer for their arborvitae and other shrubs. It’s also great for beginners due to its user-friendly design.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value for the price.
- Powerful motor and good cutting speed.
- Comfortable handling with the rotating head.
- Built-in blade oiler is a thoughtful feature.
Cons:
- Initial durability concerns reported by some users (though customer service is responsive).
- Bare tool only, battery and charger not included.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Broke on first use! I would not recommend. Follow – up: I was contacted by this company after receiving a refund. They sent a replacement at no charge. It has been used on a few occasions and works as expected. It was nice to see a company back their product and provide this level of customer service! Thank you…”
Customer Review: “I have been using this trimmer for several months now. I have several other much more expensive hedge trimmers that do not have the features that this one does. The blade length at 20 inches is in the middle of the range of my trimmers however the rotating head make this flexible and most versatile. I have to admit that I do not always oil my hedge trimmer blades before or after every use like I should. This is the first and only hedge trimmer that I have which has a built in blade oiler. What a great idea. All chainsaws have this so why shouldn’t my hedge trimmer? That was a super great feature addition I didn’t realize I needed until I used it. I have used the tool now quite a bit and crossed my fingers that this wasn’t another imported one and done trash heap tool. It has lasted already for several months of weekly usage, which is a good sign, and the motor is brushless (another quality sign). The tool comes with a scabbard to protect the blades. Dewalt batteries slide in and out easily and work as they should. Excellent Tool!”
4. Bosch Isio Hedge Trimmers
The Bosch Isio Wireless Hedge Trimmers are a fantastic choice for light-duty trimming and precise shaping. While not ideal for large, dense hedges, they excel at detailing and maintaining the shape of smaller arborvitae or for quick touch-ups. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle for extended periods, contributing to lightweight handling.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and lightweight for easy maneuverability.
- ✓ Ideal for detailed shaping and light trimming.
- ✓ Battery-powered for cordless convenience.
Why We Recommend It
If you have smaller arborvitae or need a tool for delicate work rather than heavy-duty cutting, the Bosch Isio is a great option. Its ease of use and precision make it a valuable addition to any gardener’s toolkit for maintaining a polished look. It’s a perfect tool for those who prioritize precision cutting.
Best For
Homeowners with smaller hedges, those who prefer a very lightweight and easy-to-handle tool for detailed work, and for tasks requiring precision rather than brute force.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to control.
- Great for precision and detail work.
- Simple to operate and maintain.
- Good battery life for its intended use.
Cons:
- Not powerful enough for thick branches or large hedges.
- Blade length (12cm) is quite short for larger tasks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Funkar jättebra men svårt krypa omkring o klippa gräskant. Därför beställdes ihop med teleskopskaft men den visade sig inte kunna levereras nu och ingen info om när. Skaftet behövs och kan de inte leverera får de ta tillbaks klipparen för skaft behövs!!!”
Customer Review: “I bought this item to cut the grass along the wooden fence on a new build. Weed eater proved to be ineffective breaking the cord all the time. This cutter does the job with no fuss and works really well. Still have to wait to use as a bush trimmer.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hedge Trimmer for Arborvitae
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing a hedge trimmer for your arborvitae, we look at a few key things. Power is important; you need enough to cut through the woody stems of mature plants without bogging down. Blade length matters too – longer blades cover more ground quickly, but shorter blades offer more control for precise shaping. Cordless convenience is a major plus, giving you freedom of movement around your hedges. We also consider comfort and ergonomics, because you’ll be holding the tool for a while. Finally, durability is crucial; you want a tool that will last season after season.
Budget Planning
Hedge trimmers can range from under $50 to several hundred dollars. For basic light-duty tasks on smaller hedges, you might find a decent option in the budget category. However, for maintaining robust arborvitae, investing in a mid-range to higher-end model is often worthwhile. These tend to offer better power, more durable construction, and features like rotating handles that make a big difference. Consider the long-term value and how often you’ll use the tool when setting your budget.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right hedge trimmer for your arborvitae is about matching the tool’s capabilities to your specific needs. Whether you prioritize raw power, lightweight maneuverability, or the convenience of a cordless battery system, there’s a trimmer out there for you. Taking into account blade length, ergonomics, and overall build quality will ensure you get a tool that helps you maintain beautiful, well-shaped hedges with minimal fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best type of hedge trimmer for arborvitae?
A: For arborvitae, which can have dense and woody stems, a powerful electric or gas hedge trimmer is generally recommended. Cordless electric models offer a great balance of power, convenience, and maneuverability, especially those with brushless motors.
Q: How long should the blades be on a hedge trimmer for arborvitae?
A: Blade length depends on the size of your arborvitae and how you plan to trim. For large hedges, 20-24 inches or longer can speed up the process. For smaller or more detailed shaping, 16-18 inches might offer better control.
Q: Can I use a small electric hedge trimmer for arborvitae?
A: Small, lightweight hedge trimmers are best suited for light-duty tasks and shaping younger or softer foliage. For mature arborvitae with thicker branches, you’ll likely need a more powerful trimmer to avoid bogging down and achieve clean cuts.
Q: How often should I trim my arborvitae?
A: The frequency of trimming depends on your desired shape and growth rate. Generally, arborvitae benefit from light trimming once or twice a year, typically in late spring after the new growth has hardened off and again in late summer if needed.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when using a hedge trimmer?
A: Always wear safety glasses, sturdy gloves, and hearing protection. Ensure the area you are trimming is clear of obstructions. Never operate a hedge trimmer in wet conditions, and always ensure the power source (battery or cord) is disconnected before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
Maintaining your arborvitae hedges doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right hedge trimmer, you can achieve professional-looking results that enhance your garden’s curb appeal. Whether you’re looking for a powerful workhorse or a more delicate tool for precise shaping, the options we’ve reviewed offer excellent performance for arborvitae. Don’t let overgrown hedges detract from your home’s beauty – find the best hedge trimmer for your needs and get trimming!