Question
Hi:
I recently bought a B & D 24" hedgehog trimmer (dual action) for my "cedar" hedge.  The trimmer is great for rough work (trims up to 3/4 inch branches), but does poorly with new growth.  It seems to push the light material out of the way, and a couple of days later the hedge is tan because of all the ends that are shredded.  I never had this problem with my old 16" B & D.  I called the company and they said the hedgehog might not be as good for newer growth.

MY QUESTION (finally):

I plan to buy a different trimmer, but am wondering whether the problem was the dual action or the design of the blades (for thicker material).  I am planning to buy an 18 or 20 inch single action.  Any thoughts about the type of trimmer, amps, etc.?

QUESTION 2:

I am thinking of retrimming my hedge to cut away the roughly cuts ends.  My wife says the dead stuff will fall away or get overgrown.  I am concerned that all this shredding might be unhealthy.

Rick


Answer
Hey Rick
I have not seen this trimmer you are talking about but it  could be the wrong tool for what you want to acomplish. a hedge with a finished look needs a trimmer that fits the type of shrub. the hedge hog sounds like a clearence type of trimmer for decidous type growth. you have an evergreen cedar with needles so you would be looking for somthing that shaves insted of cuts. I think a trimmer with the most blades will do a better job because the cutting action will be smoother. And you are correct about the shredded ends being unhealthy as well as the appearance looking rough.  Good Luck  larry  ;-)