How to Use a Pruning Knife

Ever since the advent of the pruning shears -- along with other more modern gardening equipment -- the venerable pruning knife doesn't see nearly as much use as it once did. Still, it is a perfectly viable gardening tool for quickly cutting back small shoots or for trimming indoor plants, provided you know how to use the little curved, bladed instrument effectively.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Locate the branch or stem you wish to cut through.

   • 2

     Place the cutting edge of the pruning-knife blade against said branch or stem. The cutting edge of the knife is located on the inside of the curve.

   • 3

     Work the blade back and forth in a semi-rotation against the branch or stem until the knife cuts completely through the wood or stem.