The Importance of Sharpening Garden Tools

Introduction

Dull garden tools make yardwork difficult. They require more force when pruning. They tear through plant material messily. Sharper blades provide cleaner, effortless cuts. Sharpening garden tools:Well-maintained edges last longer too. Learning to sharpen tools properly extends their lifespan significantly.

Benefits of Sharp Garden Tools

Sharp pruners snip through branches cleanly. This prevents jagged, uneven cuts. It creates tidy wound sites that heal faster. Sharp shovels and hoes slice soil with ease. You expend less effort digging. Sharp blades also resist bending or chipping.

When to Sharpen Garden Tools

Check sharpness regularly during peak seasons. Pruners and loppers require sharpening every few months. The more you use them, the quicker edges dull. Inspect blades for any nicks or burred edges too. Any imperfections mean it’s sharpening time.

Tools Needed for Sharpening

You only need a few simple tools. Purchase a durable sharpening stone or file. Look for diamond or carbide grit options designed for hardened steel. You’ll also need a sharpening jig, holder, or angle guide. This helps maintain ideal sharpening angles.

Step 1: Clean Tools Thoroughly

Start by cleaning off any dirt or sap buildup. Use a degreaser cleaner and abrasive pad to scrub blades. Caked-on debris can affect sharpening angles. Once clean and dry, inspect for any major nicks or blade damage.

Step 2: Secure Blades Properly

Always sharpen blades while secured in a vise or guide. This steadies the blade at the correct sharpening angle (typically 20-25 degrees). Jigs and holders prevent dangerous slips during sharpening. Mark blades beforehand to track sharpening progress.

Step 3: Lubricate Sharpening Stone

Whether using a manual or electric sharpening stone, lubricate it first. This allows the abrasives to slice metal cleanly. Use water for waterstones or honing oil for oiled types. Let stone soak up the lubricant thoroughly before starting.

Sharpening Pruners and Loppers

For bypass pruner blades, set the angle guide at 20-25 degrees. Working in one direction, draw the beveled blade edge across the stone. Match strokes for even sharpening. Sharpen until you raise a slight burr along the edge. Finish with extra-fine grit for polish.

Sharpening Shovels and Hoes

Most digging tools like shovels or hoes have a larger 35-40 degree angled edge. Secure the blade and run it across the sharpening stone in one direction only. Apply even, consistent pressure. Check periodically to monitor the edge creation.

Taking Tools to a Professional

Sharpening garden tools:Some gardeners prefer enlisting sharpening pros instead. This makes sense for tricky serrated blades or many dull tools. Mobile sharpening services provide door-to-door convenience too. Expect to pay around $5-15 per tool when sharpening through a professional.

Step 4: Deburr and Polish Edges

After sharpening, use a deburring stone or felt block. Gently run the blades over the stone to remove any burrs or metal shards. Finish by honing the edges with a leather strop block. This polishes edges for cleaner slicing action.

Adjusting for Angles and Bevels

Determine if blades need new angled bevels created. Single-bevel edges require sharpening just one side. Double-beveled blades get sharpened from both sides to maintain the correct angle geometry. Check manufacturer specs or use an angle guide.

Caring for Freshly Sharpened Tools

After the final sharpening, thoroughly clean and dry the blades again. Apply a thin coat of anti-rust oil or wax to prevent corrosion. Always store pruners with the safety lock engaged. And keep all sharpened tools sheltered indoors between uses.

Sharpening Tool Safety Tips

Wear protective gloves when handling tools during sharpening. Keep arms and legs away from blade paths. Secure blades firmly in jigs or holders. And never try force-sharpening overly damaged blades – replace instead. Sharp tools make gardening safer and more pleasant.