STEP BY STEP Give your spade a wash and brush-up

ALL GARDEN TOOLS will last longer and work better if well maintained. With a spade, regular cleaning to get rid of any dried mud and debris will ensure it always slices cleanly and easily through the soil.

1 Knock off loose soil, then stand the blade in a bucket of water to soak. Use a scrubbing brush to remove all traces of mud. 2 Stand the spade upright to drain, before drying off with an old cloth. Pay attention to drying the handle if it’s wooden. 3 Apply a very thin coating of light engine or furniture oil to all metal and wooden parts. Rub off excess with a dry cloth.