A garden hoe is one the most hardworking utensils you possess in your shed. It gets to deal with soil, water, and even tough misuse all year round. Yet, with the simplest maintenance, your garden hoe will function like a newly purchased one. These are the simplest tips to help you keep your garden hoe in the best shape.
Start with routine cleaning. After using it, remove any soil and debris. Dried mud can retain water, causing it to rust. This can be done using a brush or an old piece of cloth. In cases where it becomes too dirty, wash it with water, remembering to dry it thoroughly. Water poses the greatest threat to metal utensils.
Third, prevent rusting from occurring. Coat the metal knife blade with a thin layer of oil. Applying a thin layer of linseed oil, machinery oil, or vegetable oil will help prevent corrosion. Doing this will maintain a shiny and rusty free knife blade, especially in a humid environment.
A sharp hoe is more effective and requires less effort. Sharpen the blade regularly by means of a metal file or sharpening stone. Use the file at the same angle as the blade edge. You do not need a razor sharp blade, but enough to cut through the soil and weeds effectively.
Do not neglect the handle of the drill press. Examine the handle frequently and maintain it regularly. Sand the wood handles slightly, if necessary, and apply linseed oil on the wood handles so as to avoid cracks on the handles. For fiberglass handles or metal handles, check the handles for any cracks or bends that affect the drill press performance.
Store your hoe in the proper manner when it’s not in use. Store it in an area that’s dry and covered, such as a shed or garage. It’s even better if the hoe can be mounted on a wall hook. This will keep it from being in direct contact with the soil, thus preventing moisture from accumulating on it. Do not leave them outside, even at night.
Lastly, perform a seasonal check-up. At the end of every gardening season, clean and maintain your hoe before placing it away. This will make sure the tool is set to go for the next gardening season. By using these easy steps, you can always have a garden hoe that is strong, functional, and always looking new so gardening can be easier and more enjoyable.
