Tool Care Tips
My 3 x 4 foot tool shed situated in a corner near my vegetable garden does not look like the above thumbnail. It’s finished with leftover fence boards and there is evidence of termites but the tools stay dry.
I keep meaning to rehang the tools for easier access. Some just rest on the gravel floor. There’s always something more urgent to be done in the garden. In case you’re looking for ideas to hang your tools, check this Pinterest board 14 Creative DIY Garden Tool Storage Ideas.
My latest thought is to ask for a reorganization of the tool shed for Mother’s Day.
But that’s not the topic of this blog post. As most of us ready the garden for spring planting, we’re pressing tools into service that may need some care. The Master Gardener Association of San Diego County website has a useful page on Garden Tool Care. Here’s the intro and some of the tips:
Tools are important for gardeners. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, sharpening and sanitizing, plus proper use will keep garden tools functioning and safe for you and the plant. This page provides insight and tips for the home gardener to keep their garden tools in good working condition.
To start, here are good practices to use for keeping your garden tools working well:
Keep tools clean. Wipe tools with a damp rag after every use. Let them air dry or wipe them dry. Sap, dirt, and wetness can take their toll on garden tools. Never store tools wet as they’ll quickly rust.
Use the right tool. If you are using excessive force that requires leaning in or using two hands, slow down and go to the next tool up, in relative order: thumb pruner, hand pruners, loppers, hand saw, and power saw. Cut wire with wire cutters. Dig up soil with a trowel. Adjust sprinklers with a screw driver.
Watch where you lay your tool. Be careful about laying your tool down in the dirt, as grit can quickly dull the workings and blade. For tree or rose pruning, consider putting your tools in a bucket.
Tighten up. Check if there is wiggle between the blades, and if so, tighten the center nut. Check that blades that are screwed on, are tightened down.
Label your tools. Mark tools with your name, especially if you garden in a common area or loan out tools. Use a bright color so they will be seen when on the ground. Attach a bright ribbon or piece of cloth for easy detection.
Protect yourself. Wear a hat and gloves when in the garden. Put on sunscreen and wear sturdy shoes. Be safe and prevent injuries.
Tool Maintenance
Regular inspections, cleaning, sharping, and sanitizing of garden tools will keep them in good shape and improve the health of your garden. An easy way to remember the steps to garden tool care is with the phrase: Scrub * Sharpen * Sanitize. Follow the steps below to keep garden tools in good condition.
READ MORE for details on how to scrub, sharpen and sanitize your garden tools.
Then take a look at this YouTube video from UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County.
Who knew there were so many types of shovels?
