/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/21848146/B62695.jpg "Lawn and Garden Tools in Southeast Texas: Maintenance and Winterizing")
Last week, I wrote about moving houseplants indoors or somewhere else, like a patio, greenhouse, or garage, where they can be protected from colder nighttime temperatures. Our first "real" cold spell came last week when daytime temperatures dipped below 60 degrees.
I don't know what some of you think about cold weather, but I'm cold! Of course, living in southeast Texas, we all know our temperatures will be moderate, returning to the mid-80s after cooler weather.
Many of you have planted fall and winter gardens, green spaces or colorful fall flowers, creating a warm layer of mulch for months to come. Cold weather is a clear sign for gardeners. Now is the time to move on to other gardening tasks, such as maintaining your lawn and gardening tools, inspecting and repairing garden hoses, and storing tools for the winter.
Some gardeners, and in fact most gardeners, "conveniently or selectively" overlook the importance of taking care of gardening tools. Many of us (myself included) decide to "uproot" and dispose of our gardening tools as soon as they fall, thinking that everything is fine! Well, I'm here to tell you that it's not a good practice at all, but actually a bad habit!
Maybe it's time to make garden tool maintenance a priority? To reassure you (in case you haven't seen a price increase), garden tools are no exception, prices are exploding, and yes, partly because of rising inflation, but also due to a shortage of materials. they reduced product availability. Thus, a simple effort on your part will pay off. A little maintenance will ensure that your gardening tools are in good condition, sharp and ready for use, and last longer, especially as spring arrives. Today we're discussing how to give our gardening tools the care and attention they so desperately need. Here are some tips to stay in shape while waiting for the return of warm and sunny spring days.
In fact, lawn and garden equipment degrades over time, use, and moisture combined with soil and oxidation (rust). Thorough cleaning and proper maintenance, as described, will keep them in good working order, greatly extending their life.
Begin treatment first by removing dry, stubborn dirt with a wire brush, then rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. If necessary, soak heavily soiled equipment in water for one hour.
Sharpen tools (shovels, hoes, edgers, box cutters, etc.) with a file or rod. We work at a 45 degree angle, starting from the outer edge and moving towards the center.
Use fine sandpaper and steel wool to remove rust. After removing the rust, coat the metal surface with vegetable oil.
Look closely at the wooden handles of garden tools. If chips are visible, sand lightly with fine sandpaper, removing dust when finished. Using linseed oil or wax paste, apply a light to thin coat to the wooden handles to preserve them and prevent cracking, splintering and splintering.
To prevent rust on garden tools, store pruners and other small tools in a sandbox filled with used oil.
After removing the rust, hang rakes, hoes and shovels within easy reach.
Garden hoses should be carefully inspected for leaks and cracks when under pressure. After inspection, empty and move to a location protected from the weather. Repair the leak with a hose repair kit or replace the leaking fittings, available from your local garden center or hardware store. Plumbing repairs are easily done with minimal effort, expense and time.
Finally, the most difficult tool in the garden is the lawnmower. Clean and sharpen any blades that may be rusty or replace them. Change the oil and oil filter (use used oil in a sandbox to store garden tools). Avoid storing gasoline in your lawn mower over the winter, drain it and use it in another gas-powered tool, or add a fuel stabilizer to your fuel lines, injectors, and carburetor to reduce accumulation of sap.
Store the tool in a clean, dry place. Tools can be placed on shelves, shelves or simply on the wall. Do not store wood-handled tools where the wood may come into contact with the ground, concrete, or the outside environment.
Good gardening equipment is expensive. If you take good care of them, they will contribute to many years of productive gardening. So , fellow gardeners , let's step forward and grow a greener, more sustainable world, one plant at a time!
If you have specific gardening questions or want more information, call the Orange County Gardeners Helpline : (409) 882-7010 or visit our website: https://txmg. org/orange , Facebook: Texas Orange Gardeners Association County or email . : extension@co.orange.tx.us .
