13 CLEAN & SHARPEN GARDEN TOOLS

Now the gardening season is drawing to a close, it’s time to give your tools some TLC before putting them away in the shed. Start by removing any hardened mud using a wire brush, then give them a thorough clean using warm soapy water and a stiff brush to get rid of any remaining grime. Use a blade edge restorer or whetstone to sharpen the blades and cutting edges on secateurs, shears, loppers, spades and hoes. Lubricate the joints of shears and secateurs with a quick squirt of WD40 to keep them moving freely. Finish by giving the tools a protective coating of boiled linseed oil to help prevent rust and prolong their life.