As a gardener I know that buying new garden tools can be expensive. This means that I will go out of my way to look after them and to make sure they are properly maintained, so that they last for longer
Why you should maintain your garden tools
Save money - having to keep replacing broken garden tools is expensive. By caring and maintaining your tools properly they should last much longer.
Keep them working at their best - an old rusted pair of secateurs will not prune your plants as effectively as those that are sharp, clean and fully working.
Garden hygiene - unclean garden tools are more likely to spread diseases, meaning that a rose with blackspot could infect another rose by pruning both plants with the same secateurs.
Tips for looking after your garden hand toolstools
After use, rinse the tools with either a stiff brush or in water to remove excess dirt.
Apply a sanitiser or soap and water to the tools to give them a good clean.
Dry the tools on an old towel.
Oil blades - occasionally oil the blades to keep them rust free.
Linseed oil - occasionally wipe linseed oil to wooden handles to keep the handles from cracking.
Store your tools in a dry place to protect them from the elements. Ideally these should be hung up to protect them further.
Sharpen tools - once your tools have been properly cleaned, you can then go about sharpening any blades with a sharpening stone. You can find these online or at your local garden center.
Now it’s time to put the kettle on and maintain your own garden tools, so that they are in tip top condition for the months ahead
