The Right Way to Mow

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With the right mowing technique you can achieve amazing results with your STIHL brushcutter. Even if this is the first time you have picked up a brushcutter you will soon get the hang of correct mowing techniques. Simply swing the machine from right to left in a semicircle as you gradually move forward.

Here we show you the basic technique and some ways of mowing even large areas speedily and achieving good results from your work.

Basic technique

Because the cutting attachment rotates anti-clockwise, a right-to-left cutting action is commonest when mowing. The advantage of this method is that the cuttings drop on to the cut area.

Basic technique for long grass

When working in very long grass or tough weeds it is advisable to mow in two directions of movement: a movement to the right first of all cuts off the top of the growth, then the counter movement to the left deals with the rest. As usual, the cuttings are discarded to the left.

Large, flat areas – get the knack

The best way to cut large areas is to use the square method. Divide the area to be mown into squares, then work along the outsides into the centre.

Along a slope – strip by strip

The strip method is a very good way of working on a slope: cut a strip parallel to the slope and then return along the swath. Then cut the next strip above that. Here too, the cut grass always falls onto the cut area.

Overcoming obstacles – preparing the way

The mowing line is the best way of mowing right up to trees or bushes without damaging branches or stems. Where several plants are growing close together it is advisable to clear round them before mowing. To do that, use the guard on your brushcutter as a guide. Place it up against the trunk of the tree or bush and use it to guide you as you move around the tree. That protects the trunk while mowing the area around it.

Father’s Day Grilling Gifts

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Most fathers get put to work on Father’s Day manning the grill, so why not give him toys for the grill that he will love to use? Here are the top grilling accessories available from Napoleon that will be sure to make Dad feel like he’s celebrating as he cooks your burger.

• Let there be light! Give Dad the power to grill at all times, even at night. The Napoleon LED Light quickly attaches to any utensil, or your grill lid handle, and directs a beam of light right where you need it most. Dad won’t have to guess if the steak is done yet – he can take a look! The bright illumination of the LED Light means no more sundown-curfew for the grill or a patio light party for the bugs. With the LED Light focused on the grill surface, it’s easy to keep cooking through the night.
• Have a beer. Beer and barbecue are never a bad combination, and the Wok & Beer Can Chicken Roaster takes the pairing to the next level. Whether Dad opens a brew or uses a soda can, a savory roasted chicken will make him the hero of the grill. The addition of the Wok surface means you can toss some sides around the chicken for a complete meal in one dish. Package your gift with his favorite case of beer, and he will happily grill your dinner on Father’s Day.
• Inject some fun. Grilling adds great taste to meat, but with the Marinade Injector from Napoleon, Dad can play the gourmet and experiment with savory and juicy flavors. Chicken and steak get a literal punch of flavor as he injects the marinade deep within the densest part of your favorite meats. With an Injector, the seasoning cooks within and thoroughly permeates the whole cut rather than just the on surface. Plus, it’s fun to use.
• Presto, instant burgers! With a burger press, making patties is a breeze. Dad can quickly prep a dozen burgers, perfectly shaped, to maximize the grill’s surface and feed the whole crew. The Napoleon Gourmet Burger Press is easy to use and clean, creating perfect patties every time. It even creates stuffed patties too. Fresh is faster than thawing and cooking frozen patties and easier than hand-shaping, let the burger press streamline your burger night.

Help Dad enjoy the day with fun and useful grill accessories from Napoleon Grills!

Handling a STIHL Chain Saw

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Making wood cutting easier, quicker and simply more satisfying, a quality chain saw will cut through the work in next to no time.

Does size matter?

• Consider what you need the saw for : a 30cm guide bar can cut almost twice its length – that’s a half metre diameter log.
• You obviously need power, but not too much to control. Consider the task and seek advice. Make it safe : make it easy.
• Check for safety features like an inertia chain brake, side chain tensioning and a chain catcher.
• A saw that is comfortable to use is safer to use. Find a well-balanced machine with a good power-to-weight ratio: light enough to handle with the power to do the job.
• Ease of use is another deciding factor. Is the chain saw easy to start? Are controls accessible and simple to operate?

Always seek specialist advice when choosing a chain saw. Your local STIHL Dealer will guide you on the most appropriate saw for your needs and supply relevant safety clothing and accessories.

The Correct Way to Cut Hedges

 

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A neat and tidy hedge is a joy to see, but it does need work to achieve that smart finish. You can of course do the job by hand, but a powered hedge trimmer will almost certainly save you time and energy. Choosing the right hedge trimmer is an important decision; the right machine will pay long-term dividends, no matter the size or scale of your task. Find out here how to get your hedge into shape the correct way and don’t forget to visit our product pages for information on our extensive hedge trimmer range.

New hedges should be pruned from an early stage to establish a shape and prevent leggy, unhealthy growth. The amount you prune back will depend on the type of hedge.

Start shaping the hedge as soon as it is practical – a formal hedge whether new or established, should be tapered so that it is wider at the bottom than the top, ensuring the lower part will get the sunlight it needs for healthy growth.

Once the hedge is established, regular maintenance will ensure it keeps healthy and neat. If you’re experienced you can cut a hedge by eye, but it can be a good idea to set your lines with lengths of string taut between canes. If a formal hedge has got out of shape, cutting it back severely is often the only remedy. But bear in mind that this method is not suitable for all species. Conifers, in particular, react badly if you cut into old wood.

Hedge cutting seasons and the frequency of cutting depends on the species, but as a rule of thumb, formal evergreens like box or privet should be trimmed around two to three times a year during the growing season (around May to September); and some fast-growing conifers like leylandii may need trimming more frequently to keep them in control. Do not cut conifers after the end of August. Stocky deciduous hedges like beech or hornbeam should be cut in late August, and if major renovation is required, do that in late February whilst the plant is still dormant.

Always remember, it is important not to cut too early in the year so as to avoid disturbing nesting birds.