Care of garden tools

Tools that are exposed to plants or soil with bacterial, fungal or insect infestations can spread those problems throughout the garden. It only takes a few minutes after each gardening session to take care of your tools and protect your garden the next time they are used. Keeping your tools clean and storing them properly after each use is essential if you want them to last.

Boiled linseed oil can be used to condition the wood handles and protect the metal working parts of tools. When applied to the metal parts, it creates a barrier between the metal and oxygen, preventing rust. For a thorough treatment, apply it liberally over the entire tool, allow it to sit 15 mins and wipe off the excess with a dry cloth.

Read and follow the directions carefully, as used rags can pose a combustion risk if stored or disposed of incorrectly. Pruner blades that are clogged with sap can be difficult to use.

Solvents, such as mineral spirits or turpentine, can be used to remove sap from pruning tool blades. Making sure tools are dried thoroughly before storing and treating them with linseed or mineral oil are the best ways to keep tools from getting rusty. Forgot your password?

Get help. Privacy Policy. Password recovery. Gracious Gardening. Cleaning Your Gardening Tools To begin, fill an old pot or bucket with dry sand. How else would you care for your garden tools? Must-Have Gardening Tools. All Rights Reserved. Cleaning Start by washing the dirt off your tools with a garden hose by scrubbing with a wire brush. Dip the tools in a diluted solution of any household bleach. Turpentine can be used for any items that might be covered in sap and vinegar can be used to soak items coasted in rust.

Give wooden handles a light rubbing with linseed oil. Not only does a thorough cleaning mean sterile tools, it also ensures your tools will last longer. Just think of it as protecting your investment. Sharpening Hoes, shears, scissors, knives, loppers, prunes, and shovels all need an occasional sharpening. Wipe the blades down with WD or another lubricant.