Winterizing Equipment

Before putting any power equipment away for the winter, drain the gas tank to prevent internal parts from gumming up. Pull the gas line and drain the fuel into a receptacle of some kind, or just fire up the equipment and let it run out of gas on its own.

Winter is the ideal time to have your power equipment serviced so it'll be ready to run the following spring. Most service and repair shops are less busy during the winter months. Have your mower or chain-saw blade sharpened even if your equipment doesn't need a complete tune-up.

Draining water from your hoses before storing them for the winter is a good idea. Be sure to leave at least one hose out so you can continue to water evergreens during the winter. These plants are never completely dormant, and they need moisture throughout the year. So remember to soak them every couple of weeks during the winter months, unless moisture is plentiful.

It's also a good idea to scrub clay pots with a solution of one part household bleach to nine parts water before putting them away for the winter. Use a stiff brush to scrub off mineral deposits, rinse thoroughly and store the pots in the garage or garden shed. If left outside, the pots may crack as a result of extreme temperature change.

Also in this Episode

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-112
•	Season Extenders
•	Tool Care Tips
•	Winterizing Equipment
•	Cook It Up With Leeks
•	Grilling Fresh Vegetables