This fall I am going to begin some light pruning on my little grafts. A few recent threads got me thinking. How exactly do you all sterilize your tools? Probably overthinking this but just wanted to make sure I got it right 1) I have seen mainly bleach solutions mentioned. Is this correct? what percent solution ? 2) Do you just dip the tool briefly before going from tree to tree? 3) 'Fess up. Does everbody here sterilize their tools?
Definitely NOT bleach - it corrodes the blades, creating small pits in the metal which hold infection more effectively. Use a non-bleach sterilising fluid, I've heard 'lysol' recommended. Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is also fairly good.
It's here http://www.puyallup.wsu.edu/~Linda Chalker-Scott/Horticultural Myths_files/Myths/Pruning tools.pdf
Hi Paxi, I use small jars and keep them filled with rubbing alcohol, pretty cheap stuff. I have a jar in each greenhouse that way I won't get lazy and not dip repeatedly. Ha! Sam
Liquid based disinfectants are cumbersome for field use. I prefer flaming, with a gas-based lighter; except in windy days when I fall back to liquid solutions. Gomero
How hot do you let the blade and anvil get before next use? I'd think it would have to reach at least 60°C throughout (including right up to the hinge where plant sap may accumulate) for sterilisation, which would then take some time to cool off again.
