NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – Storing garden tools is likely one of the last projects that’s tackle when putting a garden to bed. Take the time now to clean, inspect and make needed repairs. They’ll be ready to go to work in your garden when spring arrives.
Gather everything together and do what’s needed all at the same time or take care of each tool as it is finished for the season. Make sure there is an organized storage space that’s dry and safe from winter weather.
First, clean each item. For most, spraying with water will get the job done. Stubborn, dried-on soil can be removed using a stiff-bristled brush. Use warm water with a bit of dish soap to remove sap residue. Rust spots can be dealt with using steel wool or sandpaper.
Once clean, be sure to dry garden tools thoroughly. Before storing, wipe metal parts on hand tools with mineral oil to help protect from moisture.
While cleaning each garden tool, take the opportunity to inspect it for damage and needed maintenance. Is a blade bent or a screw in need of tightening? A handle loose or cracked? Smooth the surface with sandpaper then wipe on a light coating of mineral oil.
Bladed tools, pruners, loppers, pruning saws, lawn mowers, and so on, may need sharpening. If taken to a professional to sharpen, the waiting time will be shorter this fall than it will be in the spring. Or do so yourself if you’re comfortable and familiar with the process.
Inventory what the tools and make note of what is needed. That includes not only replacements for garden tools past their useful life, but also parts or accessories that may be needed or help make tasks easier. An extra spool of line for a string trimmer can save time and frustration when returning to the garden next spring. Likewise, a longer extension cord or extra battery could prove handy if needed.
Make a list and keep an eye out for season-ending sales or springtime promotions to add them to the garden tool collection.
When taking care of other garden tools, don’t forget hoses. Clean them as needed. Inspect them for leaks. Drain any water remaining in each hose. Finally, coil and store on a hose rack or place on a flat surface.
Powered garden tools and equipment such as lawn mowers, tillers and string trimmers should be cared for and stored according to manufacturers’ instructions. If there is no owner’s manual, find a digital version on the manufacturers’ website.
If you’re utilizing more than one location for storage, make a note where each item is stored, particularly if parts may be stored separately. While an unheated garage may be a good place for a string trimmer, its battery and charger should be stored together indoors away from freezing temperatures. Note this on an inventory list, a garden journal or calendar.
Once the clean, refreshed garden tools are stored for the winter, make plans for spring’s arrival. The garden tools will be ready.
Deborah Benoit is a UVM Extension Master Gardener from North Adams, Mass., who volunteers as a garden columnist and participates in Bennington County Extension Master Gardener Chapter activities.
Deborah J. Benoit
Deborah Benoit is a UVM Extension Master Gardener who volunteers as a garden columnist and for Bennington County Extension Master Gardener Chapter activities.
