A string trimmer, also known as a weed eater, is a versatile piece of outdoor equipment used for trimming, edging, and managing growth. Once you've found the piece of equipment you want, it's time to learn the right strategy for using it. The tips below will help you use your new piece of lawn equipment safely and efficiently to achieve the best results. 

5 Key Weed Eating Tips

1. Wear Protective Gear

As with any type of outdoor equipment, you should be wearing protective gear as you work. The trimming line spins very fast and may send debris flying. Wear close-toed boots that go up above your ankle, with long pants tucked in. Wear a long sleeve shirt or jacket, gardening gloves, and eyewear. 

2. Use the Guard

The weed eater has a guard that can be flipped down over the front. Use this when you're working close to items that you don't want to risk damaging, as you angle the trimmer away from the item with the guard between them. It's valuable in protecting trees, plants, sprinkler heads, decorative rocks, and fences. 

3. Watch the Cord

If you are working with an electric string trimmer, you'll have a cord trailing behind you as you work. The trimming line is powerful enough to cut through the cord, so take care to keep it behind you and away from the device’s head. 

4. Cut from the Correct Side

Which side you want to cut from depends on the direction that the trimmer spins, as this affects which direction it ejects the cut debris. If your trimmer spins counterclockwise, cut from the right side as your trimmer ejects debris to the left. If it rotates clockwise, trim from the left side. 

5. Use Angles Along the Edge

As you trim around the edge of the lawn, use the angle of the trimming line to achieve the look you want. Edging gives the lawn a clean look at its border; hold the equipment vertical to cut at a 90-degree angle. If you want to blend the edge into the neighboring material, taper the grass by holding it at a 45-degree angle. 

Yard care becomes a lot easier with a string trimmer from Bryant's Outdoor Equipment in Dothan, AL. This family-owned and locally operated outdoor equipment supplier carries a large selection of equipment at competitive prices. They will keep your power tools in fantastic condition over the years with maintenance and repair services. Learn more on their website and call (334) 794-4419 to speak with a knowledgeable sales associate.