10 Genius Ways To Use Olive Oil For A Better Garden
You probably keep olive oil in your kitchen for cooking, but it actually does a lot more than you might think. This simple staple ingredient can also help you take better care of your garden. From keeping your tools in top shape to solving little plant problems, olive oil is a natural helper that should not be overlooked. It’s safe, easy to use, and you probably already have it in your kitchen. Here are ten creative ways olive oil can make your gardening tasks just a little bit easier.
Cleaning Garden Tools
Olive oil can be used as a great gentle cleaner for shovels, pruners, and trowels. If your tools have any dirt and sap stuck on them, just rub a small amount onto the metal with a cloth, then wipe it off. It loosens grime better than some harsh chemicals and leaves behind a light coating that will protect your tools against rust. Regularly cleaning your tools this way doesn’t just keep them looking nice but also helps them last longer. You don’t have to run to the store for any specialized cleaners anymore, you already have what you need in your kitchen cupboard.
Preventing Rust
As mentioned above, one of the easiest ways to prevent metal tools from rusting is by giving them a thin coat of olive oil after cleaning. Drop a little onto the blades of pruners, shears, or shovels, then wipe off the extra. The oil acts like a barrier between your tools and moisture, which is what usually causes rust.This is a great trick, especially if you live anywhere that gets humid. It’s simple, quick, and a lot cheaper than replacing corroded tools every few seasons.
Reviving Old Leather Gloves
Over time, leather gloves naturally dry out and crack with regular use. Instead of tossing them, rub a small amount of olive oil into the leather. The oil softens and conditions the material, helping it last longer and stay flexible. It’s not a miracle cure for gloves that are already falling apart, but it can extend the life of a pair you’ve started to wear down. It’s a little care tip that saves money and keeps your gear more comfortable.
Detangling Stuck Zippers
If you’ve ever struggled with a stubborn zipper on a garden jacket or patio cushion cover, a dab of olive oil can help. Apply a tiny drop to a cotton swab and gently rub it along the zipper teeth near the stuck area. Then, just move the zipper back and forth gently until it loosens. It works like a lubricant without getting as messy as grease. But you should still keep in mind that a little goes a long way. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself using this trick outside the garden too.
Protecting Wooden Handles
I’m sure we all know that the wooden handles on rakes, hoes, and shovels can dry out, splinter, or crack over time. Rubbing them down with a thin layer of olive oil can help condition the wood and protect it from wear. Just make sure to wipe away the extra when you’re done to avoid leaving them greasy. This simple maintenance step helps make your tools more comfortable to hold and can help them last for much longer. It’s a small practice that’s really worth doing at the start or end of each season, especially if you store your tools outside.
Removing Sticky Sap
Tree sap is notorious for being hard to get off of skin and tools, and soap alone doesn’t always cut it. But did you know that olive oil can break it down without causing much irritation? Rub a little olive oil directly onto your hands or the sticky spot on a tool, then wash with warm water and mild soap. The sap lifts off more easily, and your skin will feel softer too. It’s much gentler than reaching for chemicals, and since you probably already have olive oil in the house, you don’t have to spend any extra money.
Caring For Terracotta Pots
Terracotta pots can look dry and faded after a few seasons of being left out in the sun. Wiping them with a cloth dipped in olive oil gives them a richer color and a subtle sheen. It also creates a slight protective layer that helps keep the clay from absorbing too much water and cracking. It won’t fix old chips or cracks in the pot, but it can refresh pots that still have a little life left in them. It’s an easy way to make your potted plants look tidier and cared for.
Easing Stuck Hose Attachments
Hose ends, nozzles, and sprinklers often get stuck on hoses after sitting outside all summer. And olive oil works well as a natural lubricant to help loosen them. Just rub a bit around the threads before attaching or detaching pieces. It doesn’t only help them screw on and off more easily, but can also prevent them from seizing up again. It’s a practical alternative to harsh sprays, and you’ll find that it will make your whole watering routine run more smoothly.
Refreshing Garden Furniture
Outdoor furniture often takes a beating from sitting out in the sun and rain. If you have wooden or even some metal pieces, rubbing them with olive oil can bring back some shine and make them look a lot less worn. Use a soft cloth to apply the olive oil and buff until smooth. It won’t turn back time completely, but it can extend the life of your furniture and make it look well cared for. A quick refresh like this makes your garden feel more inviting without spending money on new furniture.
Loosening Plant Labels And Stickers
If you’ve ever tried peeling off old plant tags or stickers from pots, you know how sticky residue can be impossible to get off. But if you rub a drop of olive oil over the label sticker, it helps wear down the adhesive. Let the oil sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean. It’s a safe way to get ugly, half-torn labels off of your new planters and pots. This trick works best on glass, plastic, and clay. Once you know about this hack, you’ll find yourself using it on jars and bottles inside the house too.
A Kitchen Staple With Garden Benefits
It’s easy to think of olive oil as only something for cooking, but it turns out that it’s a pretty handy garden helper too. From caring for your tools to making your outdoor space look a little fresher, it’s versatile in ways you might not expect. Best of all, you don’t need to buy anything fancy. The same bottle you use for making dinner works just fine. So, the next time you’re out in the garden, keep it nearby. You may be surprised by how much it can do.