BELLE GROVE BARN

Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association

2 days ago

How do you disinfect your tools? (I prefer alcohol.)Putting away gardening tools for the winter? Don't forget to sanitize tools like pruners to prevent the spread of pathogens! (This should be done frequently throughout the summer too--as often as every time you use your tools!)

To sanitize:
1. wash off surface soil and/or debris before proceeding with any recommended sanitizing procedure
2. Choose a disinfectant:

Ethanol in spray or liquid form
Example: Lysol disinfectant aerosol spray (Brand III) 70% Ethanol or greater
Application: For spray applications: Apply to surface and allow to air-dry. For liquid application dip tools for 5 min

Bleach (Sodium hypochlorite) (5.25% or 8.25)
Example: Clorox and other household brands
Application: Prepare 1:9 solution of 5.25% bleach or 1:14 solution of 8.25% bleach. Must be prepared fresh. Wipe on and leave 10-15 min. for equipment surfaces; or dip tools for 5 min

ℹ️ For more information:
ext.vt.edu/agriculture/commercial-horticulture/boxwood-blight.html

--Infographic text--
How to disinfect gardening tools
1. wash off surface soil and/or debris before proceeding with any recommended sanitizing procedure
2. Choose a disinfectant:

Ethanol in spray or liquid form
Example: Lysol disinfectant aerosol spray (Brand III) 70% Ethanol or greater
Application: For spray applications: Apply to surface and allow to air-dry. For liquid application dip tools for 5 min

Bleach (Sodium hypochlorite) (5.25% or 8.25)
Example: Clorox and other household brands
Application: Prepare 1:9 solution of 5.25% bleach or 1:14 solution of 8.25% bleach. Must be prepared fresh. Wipe on and leave 10-15 min. for equipment surfaces; or dip tools for 5 min ... See MoreSee Less

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