Look after your spade
Prolong the life of your spade with careful cleaning before you put it back in the shed. Doing this regularly will keep the blade in good condition. Use a coarse short-handled brush to remove all soil and debris when you’ve finished working with it. Wipe the handle and shaft then dry it.
Once the blade of the spade is clean and dry, dip a paintbrush into some old engine oil or lubricating oil, and paint over the blade, including the cutting edge. Wipe off any excess oil with a rag then hang the spade up ready for the next time you need it. WATCH videos at gardenersworld.com/ how-to for tips on tool care