Preparing Gardening Tools for Winter

It is important not to overlook the care of garden tools the same way it is important not to overlook the care of a car. However, gardeners frequently relegate tools to a shed or corner of the garage with the onset of winter. Tools are an investment and they are the means by which gardens are created and maintained. Following these few guidelines will ensure several years of use:

• Remove dirt and rust from blades and sharpen blades
• Repair handles
• Store tools
• Store garden hoses

First, remove all dirt from garden tools by scraping or brushing. The tools may need hosing off to remove all the dirt and plant material. Remove rust from shears and clippers with steel wool or a steel brush and sharpen their blades for the winter. Remember, too, that metal tools can rust over winter without protection. A light coating of mineral, sewing machine, or baby oil can be used to prevent winter rust.

Splintered tool handles should be repaired, sanded and given a light coating of linseed oil. Many gardeners find painting tool handles a bright color makes it easier to locate a misplaced or overlooked tool. Remember to repaint handles and identification marks that may have faded during the summer.

The important part about hanging tools for the winter is to get the tool off the ground. Cold can move through concrete or soil and can expand and contract wood and metal. Regardless whether they are hung head up or head down, the most important thing is to store them high and dry.

Finally, garden hoses should be thoroughly drained, coiled, and hung in a non-freezing location to extend life.

In today's photo, volunteers from Deloitte Corporation help WPC staff put flower gardens 'to bed' for the winter at the Fort Pitt Tunnel in Pittsburgh.

Our Website has a new look. Check it out at www.paconserve.org.

E-mail Today's WPC Daily to a Friend!

Sign Up for WPC Daily