Maintaining your garden tools

The past few days have been incredibly busy for me. I had a 12 hours day at the Centre yesterday and go back again today. Hanno is going down to Sydney for a few days to help my sister who had a tree fall on her house during the wild weather a few days ago. I've received a few things in the mail and have not yet responded to the lovely people who sent them but never fear, I'll get to it, hopefully tomorrow. Despite the busyness of my days, I'm still smiling, still enjoying my work and still taking time out for talking to friends and for cuppas. My priorities remain the same even when the workload increases.

Hanno has done today's post and I've included a few photos of his work areas around our home. If truth be told, he would have liked to tidy up these areas before my camera recorded how they look during the course of a normal day but you don't want picture perfect photos - here we specialise in authenticity, so they come to you, from Hanno, in their raw state.

Your garden tools don't have to be the best or most expensive, often you can buy very good quality old tools at garage sales and markets. Buying good quality old tools is a better investment than buying cheap Chinese imports. Keep your tools in good working order by giving them a little time and effort after you've used them and they'll last a lifetime.

Lawnmower

• After using your lawn mower, check the oil level. If it is low and has not been changed for a while, now is the time to do it while the engine is still warm.
• While checking the oil, look for wear and tear on the cutting blades, if they need replacing, do that straight away.
• A small amount of dirt and grass buildup is fine because it helps protect the housing but if there is an excess, use your common sense and clean it out.
• Clean the air filter.
• Make sure the catcher is empty as it will smell if you store it with clippings still in it.
• Give the mower a quick wipe over with a clean cloth before you store it away in a protected area.

Edge trimmer

• When you finish your work, clean the unit with a clean rag. Remove any dirt or plant material.
• Check the oil level (ours has a four stroke engine) so the trimmer will be ready for work the next time.
• Store it in a protected area.
  

Garden rake, shovel, spades etc.

• Clean dirt off your tools after you finish using them.
• Don't leave your tools out in the rain or exposed to the sun for too long.
• If the metal is showing signs of deterioration, clean it well and apply a rust preventative.
  
• Every so often, check the wooden handles for splinters and roughness. If the handle starts to split, smooth it over with emery or sand paper and then apply a mix of turpentine and linseed oil. Leave it overnight to sink in and dry, then smooth over again with emery paper and finish off with a light sanding with steel wool.
• Store your tools in a dry place.