How to Store Gardening Tools for Winter

Oct 16, 2025 / Public Storage

When fall hits and your garden tools are scattered like fallen leaves, it’s time to pack things up until next spring. Storing your gardening gear the right way saves time, money, and effort when the next growing season rolls around.

Here’s your no-fuss guide to putting your green thumb on pause and keeping your tools tidy all winter long.

What Gardening Supplies Can You Store

Think of everything you won’t need during the frosty months:

Hand tools (trowels, clippers, pruners)
Long-handled tools (rakes, shovels, hoes)
Watering cans, hoses, and sprinklers
Gardening gloves, aprons, and knee pads
Tomato cages, trellises, and stakes
Pots, planters, and seed trays
Extra soil or mulch bags (unopened only)
Seasonal décor like plant signs or gnomes

Leave out live plants and opened soil or fertilizer bags—they can attract pests or mold.

Pack Gardening Gear Like an Expert

Clean Everything First
Dirt holds moisture—and moisture causes rust. Brush off soil, wipe tools dry, and rub a little vegetable oil on metal parts to prevent corrosion.

Bundle Small Stuff Together
Use labeled totes or clear bins for gloves, seed packets, and small tools.

Coil and Dry Hoses
Drain them completely, then roll them neatly to prevent cracking.

Wrap Sharp Tools
Cover blades and prongs with towels, cardboard, or bubble wrap. Store them below eye level for safety.

Choose the Right Storage Setup

If your garage or shed is already packed, a self-storage unit can help you stay organized through the off-season.

5×5 unit: Fits small garden tools, bins, and décor.
5×10 unit: Great for rakes, shovels, and raised bed kits.
10×10 unit: Ideal for families with lots of pots or larger items like wheelbarrows.

Place frequently used items near the front, and stack lighter bins on top. A pegboard inside the unit keeps tools visible and easy to grab later.

Tips to Keep Things Fresh for Spring

Keep bins off the floor using shelves or wooden pallets.
Add cedar chips to fabric bins to deter musty smells.
Store long-handled tools upright in a bucket or trash can.

Storing your gardening gear isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about getting a head start on spring. A little prep now means you’ll be ready to dig in as soon as the frost fades.