Copper alloy – bronze garden tools raise the resistance of plants, increase their life potential and prevent infections. Bronze also alkalizes substrate and ionizes the surface water and enables the development of the cell membranes in plants.
Bronze tools are durable and do not rust. It does not produce sparks and is not static. It also has a low coefficient of friction.
Bronze gardening tools are intended for use on cultured fertile soil with vegetable and flower gardens, flower beds, vineyards and parks. Individual models are appropriate for cultivation of treated fields. We recommend the use of copper tools to growers, engaged in permaculture and biodynamics because of their specific properties. Our tools are “kind to the soil” and ensure gentle care and rapid healing of the earth’s epidermis while complementing ecological and agro-homeopathic preparations. Copper has a beneficial effect on water retention in the soil and contributes to the quality of the soil and crops.
These tools are not recommended for cultivation of unspoiled terrain – or the cleaning of root systems of trees and shrubs.
Tools are made of copper alloy which doesn’t require any special maintenance because it does not rust or degrade. If possible, don’t leave the tools exposed to direct sunlight or rain.
Copper tools are supple and elastic; in case of deformation you can easily give them their original shape back which is why the tools will not break. Since mechanical application of copper increases toughness, the tool becomes harder with regular use.
In case of slight deformation with appropriate use, we advise you to return the tool to its original condition with a mallet. Because tools are hand-made, the appearance and final production may vary slightly from product to product.
Tools must not come into contact with acids such as acetic, fruit, uric etc. as the acidic environment causes the toxic verdigris.
Patina is a grey-green-brown layer, composed of carbonates and sulphates and is the result of a chemical reaction of copper, carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). After a longer period, this provides protection against material degradation. Patina consists of a basic carbonate (CuCO3.Cu(OH)2), basic sulphate (CuSO4.Cu(OH)2) and the basic chloride (CuCl2.3Cu(OH)2).
Such a layer is not toxic and does not cause negative impacts on the environment. It occurs more rapidly in a moist environment, especially in the vicinity of sea water. Copper can also be patinated on purpose; the easiest way is to wet the surface and sprinkle it with baking soda (NaHCO3) a few times.
Verdigris and patina do not have much in common as verdigris emerges as an acidic chemical reaction when copper comes in contact with acids such as acetic acid, fruit, uric, sulfuric acid (also known as acid rain) and primarily occurs in more polluted regions. For this reason, it is not advisable to expose bronze tools to rain or other difficult weather conditions. In case of a copper reaction, compounds such as copper acetate and copper hydroxyacetate may be formed on the tools’ surface. These compounds are one of the most toxic substances on earth and are still a primary component of many plant protection products.
Due to the possibility of verdigris, it is not recommended to expose copper wires or straps, designed to protect vegetables, outdoors or to use the water collected in copper gutters.
Copper gardening tools do not require special cleaning or removal of their protective layer. If you dislike patina, we recommend using a hot acetic acid solution. You can also immerse the tools in vinegar for a few hours. After cleaning, tools must be well rinsed with clean water and dried with a cloth to prevent the developing of verdigris.
