Don't mow yet! The essential spring checklist for garden tools

March marks the true start of the gardening season. Lawns are beginning to grow more quickly, hedges are putting on fresh growth and garden jobs that were put off over winter suddenly need attention. 

But before you reach for the mower or power up your trimmer, it’s worth taking a moment to check your machinery is ready for the months ahead. A simple spring service can improve performance, prevent mid-season breakdowns and help your tools last longer – just in time for the busiest period in the garden calendar. 

Peter Chaloner, Managing Director of Cobra Garden Machinery, shares his top servicing tips to ensure equipment is ready for peak spring use. 

Give your machinery a proper clean 

“Before you start any maintenance, make sure your machinery is clean and completely dry. Grass clippings, mud and debris left sitting after winter can trap moisture and lead to corrosion, particularly on mower decks and blades. A thorough clean not only helps protect the machine but also makes it easier to spot signs of wear or damage before the season gets underway. Remove any built-up debris from underneath the deck, around vents and moving parts, and wipe down external surfaces so everything is ready for inspection.” 

Sharpen mower blades for a cleaner cut 

“One of the most overlooked maintenance jobs is blade care. Dull blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can leave lawns looking ragged and more vulnerable to disease. Checking blades for blunt edges, chips or bends before the first mow of the season is essential. Sharpening – or replacing if necessary – will improve the quality of cut and reduce unnecessary strain on the engine, helping both your lawn and your machine perform at their best.” 

Inspect cables, belts and safety features 

“Cables can stretch and belts can wear over time, especially if your machinery worked hard the previous season. Spring is the ideal opportunity to check that everything is operating smoothly before you start using it regularly again. Look out for frayed cables, cracked belts or controls that feel stiff or unresponsive. It's also important to make sure safety levers, guards and cut off mechanisms are functioning correctly, giving you confidence that the machine is safe and ready for regular use.” 

Care for cordless batteries 

“For cordless garden tools, battery care is crucial. Batteries should always be stored in a dry, frost-free environment over winter and fully charged before the first use in spring. If a battery has been left uncharged for a long period, allow it to complete a full charging cycle before tackling toucher jobs. Looking after your battery properly will help maintain performance, extend its lifespan and ensure you get consistent power when you need it most.” 

For more information about Cobra and to explore the fill product range, visit www.cobragarden.co.uk. 

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Editors notes

The Cobra Garden range is constantly expanding and now consists of over 130 products to cover both domestic and professional requirements. Cobra incorporate a comprehensive range of petrol, electric and cordless lawnmowers, handheld machines and lawncare products.