Properly storing garden tools

With a few simple steps at the end of fall, you can ensure your garden tools are in great shape and ready to use when you need them at the start of spring. That's right – no headache, just gardening.

• Garden hoses: Thoroughly drain, then store rolled up and laid flat. Improper storage may result in splitting and cracking of the hose. 

• Hedge shears, pruning saws, loppers and hand pruners: Clean, sharpen, and oil before storing. Depending on what is on your tools, you can use anything from steel wool (with lots of elbow grease) to rubbing alcohol. For tough to get off pine pitch and sap, you can also clean your tools using a rag dipped in paint thinner (follow directions on the can for safety). Once you sharpen the cutting blades of these tools, oil them thoroughly to prevent them from rusting. 

• Shovels, rakes, hoes, and other hand tools: Clean with soap and water before storing. If any soil remains caked on, use a wire brush or steel wool. This will also help to remove rust spots. Treatment of the wood handles is important to prevent drying, cracking, or weathering of the handle. Paint the handles with boiled

• Tools with a blade: Re-sharpen using a power grinder or hand file. Replace any broken or split wooden handles. 

Your storage area should be dry and clean. Take the time not only winterize your tools, but to organize them. Checking, cleaning, sharpening, oiling, drying, and organizing your garden tools at the end of fall will set you up for success in the spring.