Taking care of your garden tools is key to keeping them working well and saving you money. Well-maintained tools last longer and make your work easier. If you skip the upkeep, you might deal with problems like rust, dull edges, or tools breaking when you need them most.
Something like a post hole borer, for example, works great when it’s in good shape but can become a hassle if it’s not taken care of. You’ll also get many good years out of these tools which saves you money. In this article, we will go over some tips to help you keep your garden tools in great shape.
1 – Keep edges sharp
Keeping your garden tools sharp makes your work a lot easier and gives you better results. Dull tools slow you down and can even harm plants by tearing instead of cutting. When tools are sharp, they cut cleanly and make your job faster and smoother.
For simple tools like shears or shovels, you can use a file or sharpening stone. If you’re working with something like a chainsaw, a chainsaw sharpener is a great way to keep it running smoothly for big jobs.
How often you sharpen depends on how much you use your tools, but it’s good to check them regularly. If they feel dull, take a little time to sharpen them. Make sure to clean off dirt and grime first so the sharpening works better. With sharp tools, gardening is less of a hassle and more enjoyable.
2 – Keep them lubricated
Lubricating your garden tools is a simple but important step to keep them in good working order. Moving parts, like the joints on pruners or the hinges on shears, can become stiff over time if they aren’t oiled regularly.
Without lubrication, tools can rust, wear down faster, or even become unusable. A small amount of oil applied to these areas keeps everything moving smoothly and helps protect the metal from moisture and corrosion.
Wipe your tools clean before applying the oil to ensure dirt doesn’t get trapped. A light coating is usually all it takes to keep rust at bay and parts working like new. Lubrication is especially helpful for tools you don’t use often, as it prevents them from seizing up while in storage.
3 – Store them properly
Storing your garden tools properly is just as important as cleaning and sharpening them. Leaving tools outside or in damp areas can lead to rust, damage, and a shorter lifespan. A clean, dry space, like a shed or garage, is ideal for keeping your tools in good shape. Hanging them on a wall or placing them on a rack helps prevent accidental damage and makes them easier to find when you need them.
Before storing tools, take a moment to wipe them down to remove dirt or moisture. For added protection, you can apply a thin layer of oil to metal parts, especially if you live in a humid area.