Released: October 31, 2003

Well-Kept Garden Tools Can Last a Lifetime

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Gardeners lucky enough to inherit that special shovel from their granddad or a fondly remembered trowel from Mom may think, “They don’t make tools as good as this any more.”

The fact is, cheaply made tools ARE widely available now. They can’t hold up under heavy garden use, much less some abuse – such as using a dandelion digger as a paint can opener.

Except for them, however, how long today’s tools last can depend on just what it did years ago. And, the most-neglected part of that tends to be how they’re stored when not being used, said Chuck Marr, horticulturist with Kansas State University Research and Extension.

With hand tools and the parts of power tools used to mow or cultivate, the first step in preparing them for winter storage is to clean the metal surfaces with a wire brush, Marr said.

“Then, to keep those surfaces from rusting or corroding, coat them with a light lubricant, such as WD-40 or a light oil,” he said. “You may want to sharpen or straighten these surfaces first, though. That’s not a chore you’ll think about during winter or welcome when you want to get into the garden next spring.”

A portable stone or bench grinder can sharpen garden tools. Most hardware stores and garden centers also offer a sharpening service for a fee.

Tools with wood handles will need additional care, Marr said.

“Clean them with a wood preservative material. That not only will get rid of any dirt but also provide a slight amount of oil protection to prevent the grain from loosening and developing splinters,” he said. “Don’t use a standard oil lubricant on wood surfaces, though. That can make them collect dust and dirt during next year’s use.”

Power tool engines also need additional care. The horticulturist recommends:

* Drain the tank on gasoline-powered engines. (Old gasoline can become thick and gummy.)

* Remove the spark plug and squirt a few drops of oil inside the empty hole. (That helps lubricate the cylinder). Then replace the spark plug with a new one.

* For electric motors, make sure the engine’s air intake is clear and clean. Removing buildup of dried dirt may require using a wire or bristle brush.

* Don’t put oil in the motor unless (1) the owner’s manual specifically instructs you to do so and (2) there’s a hole for adding oil to bearings.

* If the tool has a battery, remove it. Use a wire brush to clean the battery terminals (which usually corrode during the gardening season). Store the battery in a protected location, such as a cool basement.

“All tools will have a shorter life if you store them out in the elements. So, finish preparing for winter by putting your tools in a shed, garage or other protected location,” Marr said. “That will give you better odds for having your own favorite tools that last a lifetime – or even beyond.”

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K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus, Manhattan.

Story by:
Kathleen Ward, Communications Specialist
kward@oznet.ksu.edu
K-State Research& Extension News