As a gardener or homeowner, getting to prune or trim your tall flowers or trees could be difficult without a ladder. So, it would help if you had a ladder to make your trimming process a seamless one.
However, you don’t just opt for any ladder that comes your way because you might be exposing yourself to the risk of falling off when you use a wacky ladder.
Here is my experience. There was a time I was using a particular type of ladder to prune the neem tree on my balcony.
In a hurry?
If you don’t have much time use the links below to quickly find the Best Ladders For Tree Trimming for you on Amazon. You can be assured we only choose the best products…
- Best Overall – Werner FTP6208 Tripod ladder
- Runner-Up – Louisville FT1510 Fiberglass Ladder
- Best For Tall Tree – Little Giant 14016-001 Step Ladder
- Best Aerodynamic Design – Hailo Comfortline Folding Lightweight Step Ladder
- Best For Small Tree – Louisville 4 Foot tripod ladder
The ladder didn’t complete a life span of six months before it broke while pruning, and I narrowly escaped falling off. So, this is why I’m writing this article to spell out what I did differently before buying another ladder so you won’t fall victim to the same.
Therefore, this review reveals what you need to consider before choosing a Best ladder for tree trimming; the three best ladders you can opt for can ensure your safety and trim your trees conveniently only effortlessly.
Best Ladders For Tree Trimming Buyer’s Guide: 05 Things to Consider
- Do you need to purchase a ladder?
- Or a replacement for the old one?
Then you will need to go for the best. Seamlessly, a ladder offers easy access to heights.
Nevertheless, there are some things you need to consider when choosing the best ladder for tree trimming. They include:
- Material
- Height
- Load Capacity
- Weight
- Price
Material
The material type of every ladder is an important factor when choosing a ladder to buy. Hence, this will walk you through the types of material ladders you should know.
Some ladders are made of wood, while some are metal. But, the most preferred ladders are the metallic ones. Why? Metallic ladders stand out due to their tensile strength and durability.
Metallic ladders are preferred over wooden ones because they don’t suffer from corrosion and are not prone to termite, which can lead to decay.
Although it can’t stand the test of iron after production, the dense structure of iron makes it extremely heavy for carriage. The materials used for every metallic ladder property are aluminum, stainless steel, or fiberglass.
A metallic ladder has a long lifespan and can withstand moisture without fear of rotting and simultaneously ensures safety.
Height
Another thing to consider when choosing a ladder for tree trimming or pruning is the height. If your choice is too short, it might not be able to reach tall branches, thereby not serving its intended purpose.
The height of your ladder must be as tall as the height of the tree you want it to reach. It won’t be ideal if you still struggle to reach the height that made you purchase the ladder.
Since its purpose is to reach tall trees to aid your pruning process, measure all the trees in your home or garden and estimate the average height.
Then, you can consider the average height you calculated when buying your ladder.
Load Capacity
Another point to consider is the load capacity of a ladder. Ladders have different load capacities. Some are made to support heavy loads, while some are not.
At the minimum, the load capacity of an average ladder may be between 160 to 200 pounds. Commercial grade ladders usually have a load capacity of over 300 pounds.
Weight
You might be thinking a ladder load capacity is the same thing as its weight, but both are different things entirely.
A ladder load capacity is the weight a ladder can carry or support, while its weight is just how much it weighs. Ladders are made to be carried from one place to another.
That is why they are preferably made of wood, aluminum, stainless steel, or fiberglass rather than iron, as I have mentioned earlier in this article.
Price
Price is surely something you will consider when choosing a ladder. Therefore, the size of your pocket will determine what you buy.
The price of ladders varies, just like other products. You can procure a ladder for as low as $50.
You need to note that cheap ladders are often made of low-quality materials, and their load capacity can be extremely low compared to the expensive ones.
Types of Ladders Best for Tree Trimming
We already know what to consider before select ladder for tree trimming? Now we can talk which types of ladder you need to Pruning trees.
There are three major types of ladders you can employ for tree pruning.
Just as you’ve known, your ladder must not be too long or too short; rather, it must be of a perfect length that will reach the intended branch’s height.
The major types of ladders are explained below:
Step Ladder
A step ladder is a type of ladder that is non-adjustable in length. It is self-supporting, characterized by flat steps and a folding design for easy storage. A step ladder is meant for one trimmer.
The length of stepladders along its side rail ranges from 4 to 20 feet. You can only stand slightly above two ft. from the top of the ladder-which makes the highest standing level.
So, the maximum height required is estimated by summing up the maximum standing point of the ladder and your height.
Since step ladders are adjustable, apart from tree trimming purposes, you can also utilize them to do some repairs on your roof. All you need to do is to adjust it to the height you need. The chances of falling off are high for an extension ladder, so it’s best you opt for step ladders like the 8 Step Folding Lightweight Aluminum Platform Step Ladder, Silver, etc.
Extension Ladder
An extension ladder is the commonest type of ladder, and it is what most people consider a ladder even to date.
It has many sections that allow it to extend to large ranges and, at the same time, checkmating safety and stability.
Most extension ladders can withstand vertical loads. It also has non-slip steps, which will waive your fear of slipping off while trimming.
Tripod Ladder
Tripod ladders are designed to be used while trimming at a height while ensuring stability. They are otherwise known as Orchard ladders and are more suitable for trimming and fruit harvesting.
In addition, Tripod ladders have three legs, as the name implies, “tripod.” The three legs make them better suited on rough or uneven surfaces as all feet provide anchorage and support for you while working. Werner FTP6212 300-Pound ladder is the best tripod ladder for trimming tree.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ladder for your trimming activities can’t be overemphasized. But, with this review, going for the best ladder that suits your trimming activities is at your beck and call.
The various types of ladders are currently available in the market to satiate your burning desire.
Apart from your trimming activities, ladders can be used for general landscaping. Also, it can help while painting your house and when fixing your bulbs, fans, graffiti drawings, etc. This is because some ladders are best suited for certain tasks, while others are multipurpose.
The Orchard ladder, also known as the tripod ladder, is considered the best type of ladder you can employ or opt for when looking to buy a ladder to support or aid your pruning activities.
Your sturdiness and firm stance while working are assured when you subscribe to the guidelines provided in this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ladder is Best for Tree Trimming?
The Tripod ladder, also known as an orchard ladder, is the best.
Can you use a ladder to cut trees?
No, a ladder is not a cutting work tool.
How do you put a ladder up against a tree?
Watch the YouTube video uploaded by Daniel Murphy on how to position a ladder up against a tree:
What is a pruning ladder?
A pruning ladder is a portable, self-supporting ladder used for pruning and harvesting fruits.
What is an orchard ladder?
An orchard ladder, a pruning ladder, is used in orchards, gardens, and landscaping maintenance for trimming and fruit harvesting.