Preparing garden tools for winter

Dec 19, 2012

Dale Odorizzi, Lanark County Master Gardeners

As the days of working outside in your garden draw to a close, it is time to put away your garden tools properly for the winter. Doing so can add years to the life of your garden equipment. Your tools will be protected from rust and wear and they will be ready to go the moment spring fever hits next year.

Scrape any excess mud or dirt from the tool. You can use a stick to knock off large pieces and a wire brush for tougher spots. If soil is really caked on, you may need to leave the tool soaking in a bucket of water for a few minutes before moving on to the next step. Wipe the tool off with an old rag and let it dry thoroughly.

Once it has dried, remove any rust by rubbing it vigorously with a small piece of steel wool. Be sure to wear gloves for this step. After removing all rust, sharpen the tool, if it has a sharp edge. This includes shovels, edgers and pruners.

Condition wooden handles by sanding any rough or splintery portions with sandpaper. You can rub the wooden handles with Linseed Oil. Be careful with how you dispose of your rags after doing this as Linseed Oil can be very flammable.

Spray metal parts with penetrating lubricating oil to protect them from rust. Another approach to lubricating your tools is to fill a bucket or container with clean sand. Mix in a litre of cooking oil. You can use used cooking oil. Plunge the metal part of your tools into the sand 2 or 3 times. Some people leave their tools in this bucket of sand. If you read about using sand and oil, you may find that older sources tell you to use Motor Oil. Motor Oil is now treated much more carefully and should not be used for this. You can also use your sand/oil bucket throughout the growing season to keep your tools well lubricated. The oil lubricates the tool and when you wash it off after using, all the dirt and muck simply slides off.

Store your tools in a dry spot. Avoid leaving tools on the floor of your garage or any other places likely to get damp in winter.