The first step to healthy tools is keeping them clean. Wet soil is a major cause of rusty tools, so spraying down your tools to clean them after use will improve their lifespan. While cleaning, it also may be appropriate to inspect your tools for any signs of wear or damage. Wood-handled tools may need sanding, metal tools may need sharpening, and a quick inspection during cleaning can help catch problems before they become more serious.
Most garden tools can be cleaned by simply spraying them down with water. After cleaning and being wiped down, tools can be left to dry in the sun. In some cases, solvents may be needed to remove sap from saw blades and shears. In either case, there are a number of ways to restore these weathered tools to working order. A drill with a steel wool attachment can scrub off rust with little worry of thinning or damaging the metal. Leonard Parry, a professor of University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science , suggests soaking smaller hand tools in strong black tea.
A hand file can profile the edges of shovels, hoes, and trowels. Edged tools may require a whetstone or grinder to maintain cutting power. Tools can be sharpened once a season or after every use, depending on the amount of work they put in. More importantly, after cleaning or sharpening, metal tools and wooden handles should be oiled. Regular oiling will not only keep your tools sharp but also prevent rust.
This help to clean tools after use and cover lightly in oil to prevent rust. Linseed Oil rubbed on timber handles helps to stop drying and cracking of wooden items, especially after being used and getting wet. Keep a stock of potting mix, fertilisers, mulch, seeds, pots, natural sprays and your other favourite items on hand to use as needed…saves a trip to the store every time you want to get a job done!
Following a few steps to keep all your equipment clean, sharp and safely stored will save you loads of time and money and will also be ready anytime you look forward to heading to the garden! Have a question about your plants or garden? Join our Soil to Supper Facebook Club and post questions, comments and ideas each day! Would you like to be a part of an online gardening community to gain a deeper understand of growing fresh food? More information here soiltosupper.
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