Before you adopt a plant, identify places in your home you'd like to keep one. Balancing light, air flow, and water needs are essential to keeping a happy and healthy plant.
Moisture from old debris can cause rusting. You can remove debris with a heavy-duty wire brush, wire wool, or a clean rag. Smaller tools can be cleaned with an old toothbrush.
Simply fill a bucket or sink with warm, soapy water and wash your tools. Swish them around and gently wash them. Then lay them out to fully dry before sharpening.
When sharpening your tools, you’ll want to file only in one direction to stay in control. Move either from left to right or right to left, but never back and forth.
This might be necessary for broad-forks, straight-edge hoes, or hand rakes damaged during use last season.
Using a clean towel or rag, apply a small amount to all metal surfaces of your newly sharpened tools, ensuring it gets in all the crevices. You can use regular coconut oil or cooking spray if you have those on hand.
Store your tools somewhere they will stay dry and clean when not being used and where they’re easily accessible when you need them.