By popular belief, trimmers are faster and more efficient but NO..
Trimmers are imprecise, which results in cutting off important buds at the end of branches.. these buds regulate growth and without them the plant is confused.. Normally, these buds send out a chemical signal that tells all the other buds on the branch not to grow. When the bud gets cut off, an explosion of growth happens.. which results in more cutting throughout the year..
Less effort - Properly hand pruned shrubs only need to be maintained once every year or two. (Depending on the hedge type)
Less time - While hand pruning might take a little more time when you first begin, you’ll get that time back by not having to trim your shrubs multiple times per year.
Less expensive - By only buying hand shears
Healthier plants - Hand pruning not only prevents shredded leaves and jagged branch tips, but it also helps to control pests and increase oxygen flow to the plant by removing dead branches.
Plus it gives you more time to observe the plant to check for pest, diseases and the overall health of the plant and its more satisfying and enjoyable to prune by hand, try it!!
