Thimna MatikaAlthough garden tools get used a lot, they often get neglected while we are all busy tending the plants during the growing season.
Winter is a great season to dedicate some time to cleaning and caring for your tools. Oiling and storing tools in the winter helps prevent rust.
Clean your tools
Clean your tools regularly by removing soil, using water, wire brushes, steel wool, sandpaper, or alcohol. If tools have rust, remove it with sandpaper or alcohol. Disinfect tools to prevent plant disease spread. Using a diluted bleach solution is an easy way to clean tools, but be aware that bleach can be corrosive.
Different disinfectant options are available to help you choose the right one for your needs, with various products offering different advantages and disadvantages.
Read more: The importance of cleaning your garden tools
Image credit: Pexels
Oil and store your tools
Pine oil products are less corrosive than other disinfecting options and effective at keeping rust at bay. To use, mix a 25% solution with lukewarm water and soak tools in it for at least 10 minutes. Wipe the tools with a dry cloth and store them in a cool, dry place after wiping.
Tools you should not leave outside
- Spade
- Metal rake
- Shires
- Shovel
Caring for your garden tools during the off-season not only makes them last longer but also makes gardening easier and safer.
A few minutes of cleaning, oiling, and storing your tools will pay off in frustration-free gardening later. Treat your tools just as well as you treat your garden, and they’ll work for you season after season.
ALSO SEE: TIPS FOR MAINTAINING YOUR GARDEN TOOLS
Featured image: Pixabay
