Sandy,
If you value your wrists and future hand dexterity, I would
not hesitate in moving to battery power-packed pruning shears.
I know many are put off by the up-front costs comparable to
standard hand pruners. But really, I believe that productivity
increases, and joint stress is certainly reduced, and both of these
aspects have significant monetary impact that is not easily
seen, but is nevertheless present.
In a prior examination, I thought Electrocoup had the edge to
other manufacturers, but my look is several years past, and equipment
modifications and new options may have changed since then and would
have me inclined otherwise.
I emphasize that the overall utility and wisdom of using such
instruments remains unchanged! I am not making any particular
product endorsement. I know an orchardist in the Saratoga region of NY
who has about a target 100 acre retail operation (and shrinking
as initial wholesale was foresworn -- and retail is growing and
improving) who swears by his electronic pruner.
I agree that air tools have merit, but for an individual, or even
small crews, I think - especially with dwarfed tree systems - the
electric are the way to go.
With larger trees, and crews, the air equipment is more
reasonably handled and is probably more appropriate. In truth,
tool approaches are compatible.
I hope at a future point to have a field demo so growers might
consider these tools not on the showroom floor or catalog, but right
there in their mitts going down through their pruning task. The grower
I mentioned has indicated a willingness to demo, and by
that time, perhaps you might join us for your - by then - added
evaluation. Thanks.
Best Regards, Kevin Iungerman
Hello Folks,
Some time (years?) ago I believe a thread on Apple Crop discussed pros and cons of portable electronic shears for pruning apples. I unfortunately can not recall any of the particulars in that discussion. We are interested in information derived from your experience which could help us in a decision to purchase. Our dormant pruning is mostly on frozen wood in trees generally not exceeding 12 feet. Has anyone used the extensions available for the Electrocoup shears? How much is weight and balance a consideration? Do you have any preferences? Any other thoughts?
Many thanks.
Sandy Witherell
Shoreham, Vermont USA
--
Kevin Iungerman, Extension Associate
Cornell Northeastern NY Commercial Fruit Program
Serving NY's Upper Hudson and Champlain Region
(Albany, Saratoga, Washington, Essex and Clinton Counties)
Growing McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and other fine apples and fruit!
50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Phone: (518) 885-8995
FAX: (518) 885-9078
email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Cornell Northeastern NY Commercial Fruit Program
Serving NY's Upper Hudson and Champlain Region
(Albany, Saratoga, Washington, Essex and Clinton Counties)
Growing McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and other fine apples and fruit!
50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Phone: (518) 885-8995
FAX: (518) 885-9078
email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
