Pruning saws are a must-have tool for gardeners and landscapers. Your yard will look neat with precise trimming of trees and shrubs. Pruning saws can get blunt and rusty over time, affecting their performance and lifespan. To keep your pruning saw in good shape, you must know How To Care For A Pruning Saw. We’ll share eight tips on caring for a pruning saw so it lasts longer, performs better, and keeps your yard looking good.
How To Care For A Pruning Saw | Pro Tips
1. Clean Your Pruning Saw After Every Use
Cleaning your pruning saw after every use is the most important tip. Next time, it gets hard to use the blade if sap, debris, and dirt build-up.
Brush any residue with a soft-bristled brush after using warm soapy water to clean your pruning saw. Wipe the blade clean with a clean cloth after you rinse it.
2. Keep Your Pruning Saw Sharp
Sharp pruning saws make cleaner cuts, making you less likely to damage the tree or shrub. Take your pruning saw to a professional sharpener or sharpen it yourself with a saw sharpening file. You can extend the life of your pruning saw by sharpening it regularly.
3. Protect Your Pruning Saw From Rust
Metal tools, including pruning saws, are prone to rust. Wet pruning saws can rust quickly, affecting their performance and lifespan. Store your pruning saw in a dry place after using it, like a shed or garage, to prevent rust.
4. Lubricate Your Pruning Saw Blade
Make sure you lubricate your pruning saw blade so it moves smoothly and doesn’t rust. After cleaning and drying the blade, apply the oil. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil before storing the saw to prevent attracting dirt and debris.
Also Read: How To Use A Manual Pole Saw With Rope?
5. Inspect the Blade Before Use
Check your pruning saw blade for damage or wear and tear before you use it. When the blade is damaged, the saw won’t work well, and you’ll be more likely to get hurt. Replace or get it repaired if you notice any damage.
6. Use Your Pruning Saw Correctly
You can extend the life of your pruning saw and keep yourself safe if you use it correctly. Use a comfortable grip and both hands on the saw’s handle. Make sure you cut steadily and let the saw do the work. Ensure you don’t force the saw, which could damage the blade.
7. Store Your Pruning Saw Safely
Store your pruning saw properly to keep it in good shape. Store it somewhere dry and secure, like a garage or shed. Make sure it’s never left outside or exposed to the elements.
8. Maintain Your Pruning Saw Regularly
Your pruning saw needs regular maintenance to stay in great shape. Ensure the blade isn’t damaged or rusty, sharpen it regularly, lubricate it, and clean it after every use. Make sure your pruning saw is maintained so it performs optimally, lasts longer, and keeps your garden looking good.
Also Read: Do You Need To Oil A Pruning Saw?
How Do You Clean And Store Pruning Tools?
Pruning is an essential part of tree and plant care. When done right, it keeps them healthy and promotes growth. However, if you don’t properly clean and store your pruning tools, you’ll spread diseases and damage them.
Gardeners need to know how to clean and store their pruning tools. Here’s how to keep your pruning tools in great shape for many years with these tips and tricks.
1. Clean the blades after each use.
Ensure you clean the blades after every use to prevent diseases from spreading. Get rid of dirt, debris, and sap by wiping the blades with a soft, clean cloth.
Clean the blades thoroughly with warm water and mild soap. Make sure they’re scorched to prevent rust. You can also disinfect the blades with rubbing alcohol to avoid germs.
2. Sharpen the blades regularly.
Dull blades can damage plants and trees, making it essential to sharpen them regularly. After cleaning the blades, use a sharpening stone or file to sharpen the edges.
Make sure to follow the angle of the bevel for the best results. A sharp blade will make pruning more accessible and reduce the risk of disease transmission.
3. Oil the blades
Once the blades are clean and sharp, use a few drops of oil on them to prevent rusting. Apply a light coat of any household oil, such as vegetable or mineral oil, to the blades and wipe it off with a cloth. Store the blades in a dry place to avoid any moisture buildup.
4. Store the pruning tools properly.
Storing your pruning tools properly can help prolong their lifespan. Keep the blades covered in a sheath or wrap them in a soft cloth to protect them from damage.
Additionally, store them in a dry place to avoid any moisture buildup that can cause rust. Keeping them out of children’s reach is also essential to prevent accidents.
5. Take extra care of specialized pruning tools.
Specialized pruning tools such as hand saws, pole saws, and loppers require special care to stay in excellent condition. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean and sharpen these tools. Store them in a protective case or sheath to prevent damage.
Also Read: Can You Use Pruning Saw To Cut Roots In Dirt?
Bottom Line:
A well-maintained pruning saw will help you keep your yard looking fantastic. It’s vital to clean and sharpen it regularly, protect it from rust, inspect it before use, and store it safely.
By following these pro tips on how to care for a pruning saw, you can ensure your pruning saw performs well and lasts longer. Happy pruning!