Step 1:   Always remove all of the soil from your digging tools after use. Step 2:   Thoroughly clean any tools that have been used for chemical applications. Step 3:   Allow tools to dry completely before storing them, to prevent rusting. Step 4:   After each use, wipe the metal parts of pruners and shears with an oily rag to keep them rust-free. Step 5:   Sharpen your cutting tools and blades of shovels and spades regularly to get the most out of them.