Garden tools will last for many years if kept in good condition. The biggest challenge is preventing rust from breaking and ruining protective finishes and eating into the surface of the metal of gardening tools. Moisture and soil will also damage wood handles or tool components.
Daily cleaning and drying through the gardening season, annual sharpening and maintenance along with proper storage when not in use will go a long way to keeping your tools in good working shape.
Garden tool racks and hangers are great for storage and ideal for ensuring your garden tools stay clean and dry.
Here are a few tips for keeping your garden tools in good shape through many years of gardening activities:
- Clean your garden tools and equipment thoroughly after each and every use
- Store your garden tools in a dry place
- Keep gardening tools off the ground when not in use
- Keep a dry towel where you store your tools so you can dry them off before putting them away
- Before storing your garden tools for the winter, clean your garden tools thoroughy, allow to dry, then apply linseed oil to the wooden handles and WD40 to the metal parts
- To prevent wooden handles from splintering, sand them when they get rough. A light application of linseed oil following sanding to add protection
- Sharpen your shovels with a file when they become dull
- Remove rust from your tools with a metal brush
