Telescopic Edging Shears (more wildlife-friendly than strimmers)
These telescopic edging shears are by a quality brand, designed to be easy to use, and to last for years, possibly a lifetime! Garden shears are not just good exercise, but much safer to avoid accidentally injuring wildlife (if you use strimmers, sweep through long grass with a broom handle first).
Same with mowing (never use robotic mowers, as slow-moving wildlife can’t escape in time). Read more tips on wildlife-friendly gardens.
If you share your home with animal friends, learn about pet-friendly gardens (many plants and mulches are unsafe near animal friends). And use nontoxic humane slug and snail deterrents (organic gardens should take care of this by attracting birds, ladybirds, frogs and toads).
These shears are designed to perfectly adjust to your frame, and take the backache out of lawn edging, meaning it will be just as easy to trim lawn edges.
Each handle adjusts independently to tailor for those with shoulder or arm problems, and the carbon steel blades are shaped with an undulating edge, to better grip the grass, for a more precise cut.
Note that it’s illegal to sell knives or cutting tools to anyone under 18.
As with any steel blade, it’s best to clean with fresh water and dry well after use, to prevent corrosion. A final wipe over with an oiled cloth with add an extra layer of protection (vegetable oil is fine).
Where to recycle garden strimmers
You don’t want to donate them, as this could mean someone else harms wildlife. Instead, enter your postcode at Recycle Your Electricals to find your nearest outlet, they will be made into scrap metal.
All stores that sell electrical goods must take old ones back by law (even if you are not buying something new). Or at least take back the strimmer and buying some edging shears!
If you have no transport, most councils offer bulky waste collection.
Ensure petrol tanks are empty (use a siphon pump and pour into a jerry can for disposal at hazardous waste -don’t pour down drain). If the strimmer has been sitting for a long time, drain the carburettor by loosening the drain bolt under the float bowl, to remove residual stale fuel, and dispose of safely as above.
Why avoid garden strimmers?
Any wildlife rescue charity will tell you that one of the main issues they deal with, is creatures caught up in strimmers, leading to horrific injuries and often death. Hedgehogs, frogs and any creatures that live in long grass are particularly in danger.
Many end up with deep cuts and head wounds, especially creatures like hogs that freeze when frightened, and roll themselves into a ball (rather than running away).
If you find any creature needing help, contact your local wildlife rescue (or take to the vet if you can’t get through – there is no charge to you).
