There is nothing that feels amazing than having a perfect garden. If you have been down that road, you know well that all these can be achieved by having the necessary tools. When you say tools, it doesn’t mean any tool, but tools that have been maintained. Many times you step out of your garden, so tired, that the next thing you wish to do is take a shower followed by a cold beer. What about your tools? How much are you doing to ensure that they will serve you even better come the next time? Well, Here are some simple yet effective tricks you can borrow to help maintain your gardening tools:
1. Cleaning is non-negotiable
Most people make the mistake of dumping their gardening tools in the garage, after a tiring session in the garden. Well, the move is understandable based on how exhausting your working in the garden was. But, is cleaning your appliances after work too much to ask? Of course, that’s an activity you shouldn’t get tired of performing.
So, how do you go about cleaning? First, you have to acknowledge that there are different tools that you may require to perfect your garden. You must, however, note that every other tool asks for thorough cleaning after the work. You only need a bucket of warm water and a stiff bristle brush or wire. With the water and wire in place, you can start by knocking off the dirt of your tools using the brush. With the majority of soil removed, continue to scrub the tool using warm water before rinsing. Once clean, don’t forget to leave the tools in the open to dry. You can still use a dry towel to dry the wetness if time isn’t on your side.
2. Store them properly
Some gardening tools are for daily use, while others are used occasionally. It doesn’t matter how often you use them. Proper storage is mandatory as many people make the mistake of leaving their gardening tools in the open, with the idea that they will need them the following day. By doing this, you expose your tools to things such as rust or even theft. Besides, this kind of negligence can lead to accidents as you may trip and fall on them, injuring yourself.
Now, imagine having to wait until summer to buy a snow blower at a discounted price, only for you to leave it in the open overnight. Such an act can see you lose your equipment’s efficiency or even damages. The only remedy in getting ready for winter is to return this particular piece of equipment to the shed when not in use. Remember, such gardening tools are used seasonally. Therefore, the moment you neglect one, the chances of forgetting its existence is high. For items such as spades and trowels, it’s advisable to store them in a pot filled with sand. The trick helps keep the metal in good condition. For more extensive tools, they do best when hanging in a dry and ventilated shed.
3. Apply some oil before storage
Rust is the gardening tool’s worst nightmare. It can see the life of your equipment shorten. If you can recall back in your science classes, you were taught that the best way to prevent metal from rusting is by applying some oil. Yes, oil acts as a barrier, preventing the oxygen and water from reacting with the metal on your tools.
Therefore, you must consider smearing some oil on the tools before keeping them in the shed. When it comes to spreading the oil, it will help if you considered using boiled linseed oil instead of using petroleum-based oil. This natural oil evaporates after application as opposed to the petroleum one which may end being transferred to the soil. When applying the oil, don’t forget the handles, especially if you live in drier climates. The trick prevents your handles from drying out and cracking.
4. Sharpening
Occasionally, you will need a sharp tool for use in the garden. There is nothing that feels better than using a well-sharpened tool when performing tasks. It makes the work easy. Besides, with a sharp instrument, it means that you won’t have to put in extra force and hence boosting the life of your appliances.
Therefore, you must sharpen your gardening tools now and then. You can utilize a flat-file to handle your sharpening needs. Flat files are easy to find at your local hardware store. Before you start sharpening, consider your safety first. Always wear protection, such as heavy gloves, to prevent any accidents that may come your way.
5. Don’t neglect the wooden handles
You must have in mind that your gardening tool needs every other part to function correctly. Therefore, the last thing you should undermine is the wooden handle. Consequently, it would be best if you made it a habit to inspect the handles on your forks, spades, and loppers for any signs of splintering. If there are any signs, sand the handle smooth before applying a finishing oil. The idea here is to smooth the handle and, therefore, you can reapply the oil again and again until the handle can’t soak any more oil. When done, remember to wipe off the excess oil before storing your gardening tool.
Investing in the right gardening tools is the secret to maintaining the beauty of your garden. However, the story doesn’t end there as you need to maintain the state of your tools to ensure that they continue to serve you more. With all the listed tips on how you can care for your gardening tools, nothing can go wrong.