Winter is a relatively quiet time in the garden, so it’s a good opportunity to get ahead with tool maintenance – although you can of course maintain your tools at any time of year.
Pruning tools like secateurs and loppers will function better, last longer and be safer to use if clean, sharp and well-oiled. Sharp blades cut cleanly, leaving a tidy wound on the plant which should heal fully and reduce the risk of disease affecting the plant. Keeping tools clean also guards against disease being spread between plants.
On the hunt for new secateurs? Take a look at our guide to choosing secateurs before you buy.
More tool care advice:
- Sharpening garden tools (video)
- Maintaining wooden garden tools (video)
- How to sharpen secateurs (video)
Discover how to maintain secateurs, below.
