Getting Tools Ready for Winter

If you take care of your tools they will take care of you. Part of that is cleaning and preparing your garden tools for winter. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison shows what he does to get his hand tools ready for winter. He uses a flat file on the metal parts of his tools to remove burs and sharpen the edges of his sharp tools. Once they are sharp, he covers the metal with penetrating oil like WD40 to prevent rust. Then he lightly sands the wood handles of his tools and applies linseed oil to the wood to protect it. The tools are now ready for winter storage and use in the spring.

Related Videos:
Tools Every Gardener Needs
Fall Garden Tool Care

Related Resources:
Caring for Your Tools
Tool Care
Maintaining Lawn and Garden Tools