Rake designs haven't changed much over the years, although materials used to make them have. A new, ergonomically designed rake that looks weird but works great has been developed. What makes this rake so great is its handle design. The shaft is bent in such a way that you can stand up comfortably while raking, which means no more bending and no more backache as you rake. It even seems as though there is more power in each stroke than in a rake with a conventional design.
Considering the cost of good gardening tools these days, it pays to take care of them properly. The best way to ensure that your tools will last a long time is to give them a thorough once-over before you put them away for the winter.
Clean all metal surfaces to remove any dirt that can harbor moisture and cause the metal to rust. Small and large stiff wire brushes work best for this task.
Once all the dirt has been removed, soak a towel in oil, such as motor oil, and coat the metal surfaces thoroughly. You can even use WD-40 or vegetable oil. The oil coating will prevent rust from forming on the metal should moisture find its way into your garage or tool shed.
Wooden tool handles should be treated to prevent drying and cracking that can lead to splinters. Soak a rag in boiled linseed oil and rub the handle, allowing it to absorb the oil. Check to see that any screws or bolts that connect the business end of the tool to the handle are fastened securely.
If you've noticed that some of your tools don't cut or dig as well as they once did, it may be because their cutting edge has been dulled from repeated use. A metal file works well on most tools, and a few strokes will make all the difference in the world. Just remember to follow the original angle or bevel of the edge, and make sure you file the edge smooth.
In the case of pruners and loppers, first remove any sap that may have collected on the metal surfaces with some soapy water or turpentine, then file the cutting edge. While you're at it, oil pivot points with a light household oil or WD-40. If you'd like to try your hand at sharpening knives and other tools that require a really sharp edge, buy a honing stone and spend some time sharpening your sharpening skills. Be patient, though, as this technique is difficult to master.
Clean your gardening tools throughout the growing season, rather than waiting until the end of the year to do it. Get a good size barrel or bucket, fill it with sand and add a quart of motor oil, then each time you use your tool, stab it a few times in the sand. The grit of the sand will knock the dirt off the metal surfaces and the oil will put a nice shine on the tool and keep it from rusting.
