INVESTING in high quality cutting tools is well worth the money. Well-designed tools invariably add to your gardening pleasure, but remember, the cost is measured in cold, hard cash alone.
To get the best out of your tools also requires an investment of time and effort to maintain them in optimum condition.
Clean sharp tools cut better, damage plants less and are easier on the gardener.
The following tips will ensure you get a lifetime of good service from your tools … they could even become a family heirloom!
Care and cleaning
– Wipe blades with a rag after each use.
– To remove sap, use a rag dipped in solvent such as kerosene.
– Periodically apply a few drops of light oil to joints, springs and exposed metal.
– Store in a dry place.
Sharpening anvil tools
– Sharpen only the blade and sharpen both sides.
– Avoid changing the shape of the edge, otherwise it may not rest true against the anvil and you may not get a clean cut.
– Sharpen with a whetstone and maintain the existing angle on the edge of the blade while you push away from the blade with the whetstone.
Sharpening by-pass tools
– Sharpen the blade on the outside only.
– On scissor-action tools such as hedge shears, sharpen both edges.
– Sharpen with a whetstone, and maintain the existing angle on the edge of the blade while pushing away from the blade with the whetstone.
– Remove the light burr on the back of the blade formed during sharpening with a light stroke flat to the blade.
Sharpening saws
– Most saws are difficult to sharpen by hand. Consider having it done by a professional or buying a replacement blade.
That takes care of the tools, now for the gardener. When using cutting tools for pruning or lopping be sure to follow the safety guidelines below:
– If using a ladder, be sure of your footing.
– Always wear safety glasses.
– Always keep fingers and hands clear of blades and wear leather gloves.
– Never cut near power lines.
– Store tools out of reach of children.
