How to Care for Your Garden Tools

My grandfather always said that a gardener who doesn't care for his tools is not worth his salt. Caring for garden tools can save money and help make work easier.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rag
• Mallet
• Replacement handles
• Chisel
• Work gloves
• Safety goggles

1. Evaluate the condition of your shovels, rakes, hoes and other garden tools. If tools have broken handles, remove the metal pin securing the handle and then take out the handle. (Some tools do not have a pin. The handles are either wedged in or they have threads so they can be screwed in.) You may need to use your chisel to chip off some of the wood if the handle is wedged in too tightly. Don't forget to wear your work gloves and safety goggles.

2. Take the tool heads to the local home improvement store and ask the clerk to assist you in selecting the right handle. Consider how long the replacement handle is. A tool that has a handle that is too long is hard to use.

3. Push the handle into the head's handle slot. Rest the butt of the handle on the floor and place a rag over the tool's head to prevent damage. Use a rubber mallet to tap the head until the handle and the head are flush.

4. Insert the pin into the middle of the handle and tap it into place. This keeps the handle from sliding back out of the tool's head.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a shovel that has a crack in the head as well as the handle, discard it. It is too dangerous to use in this condition and the head is not easily repaired.
• Be careful not to hit your hands with the mallet when you are replacing your handle.

[MidniteWriter]

on 7/30/2008 Great to know, I will have to get out there and do this!

[Gardengates]

on 7/30/2008 Okay, there goes my excuse for being lazy. But seriously, it really IS important to take care of garden tools. Good advice.