Bronze tools look too good to use, right? Well, you'd be missing out if you didn't pick them up and dig straight in. As well as being supremely practical, durable tools, they make covetable gifts for gardeners when new and softly gleaming; that's if you can bear to part with them!
In this blog post, I'll explain the difference between copper and bronze, the qualities both metals bring to garden tools and the benefits for you, the gardener. I'll also share tips for keeping copper and bronze tools clean and sharp, so they'll give you many years of good service.
What's the difference between copper and bronze?
In its pure form, the metallic chemical element copper (Cu) can be beaten or formed into complex shapes without cracking. However, for making tools, it's a little too bendy. By adding tin and small amounts of other metals to make an alloy, in this case bronze, copper's flexibility is retained, but the alloy is up to four times as hard as pure copper.
Bronze has a slightly more orange colour than pure copper, which has a warm, rosy hue.
When applied to tools, the descriptions 'copper' and 'bronze' are interchangeable but generally indicate that the tools are made of bronze.
Why choose copper and bronze tools over iron or steel versions?
In a nutshell, copper and bronze tools don't rust, require very little maintenance, and have anti-microbial properties.
Unlike iron and steel, copper and bronze do not rust, which prolongs the lifespan and effectiveness of tools made from them. Over time, the surfaces of copper and bronze will develop an attractive, conker-coloured patina that helps protect the underlying metal. I appreciate the aged look, but if I ever want to restore a copper tool to its warm, glowing glory, Brasso does the trick! No rust means no need to use oil to prevent corrosion.
Iron and steel must be heated to white heat before they are hammered into shape, whilst copper and bronze are weakened by high temperatures. Copper and bronze tools are hammered when cold (known as work-hardening) to strengthen them, and you may spot hammer marks on them, even when new. This process uses less energy than forging steel.
Importantly for gardeners cultivating heavy, sticky earth, copper and bronze have lower friction coefficients than steel, meaning soil particles cling to them less readily. Copper tools glide through all soils and require minimal cleaning after use; however, they should always be stored dry.
As copper tools are used, minute amounts of copper are deposited in the soil, benefitting microorganisms but deterring slugs and snails. Copper is antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal, meaning it can help prevent the spread of viruses, bacteria and moulds in the garden. For the same reason, doorknobs and door handles are often made from bronze or brass, another copper alloy.
Copper traces left in the soil when using copper tools ionise water, increasing its surface tension. This makes it easier for plants to take up water and enhances the soil's ability to hold it, which is particularly useful in light, sandy soils or during periods of drought.
Why are copper tools more expensive than steel?
Along with gold and silver, copper is a noble metal, meaning it occurs naturally in the environment. It's also exceptionally easy to recycle without any loss of performance or quality, allowing it to be reused infinitely. Iron and steel must be extracted from ores, using far more resources. Copper's versatility and relative scarcity versus iron make it a more highly prized metal and therefore more expensive to buy. However, a small additional outlay offers significant advantages over time, making copper tools worth investing in.
Here's a summary of why you should choose copper and bronze tools:
- They don't rust.
- They're easy to clean and maintain - a gentle brush or wipe will usually do.
- They have sharp blades that glide through soil.
- They can easily be re-sharpened or beaten back into shape if damaged - no heating is needed.
- Their blades are generally thinner, making them lighter.
- They have an attractive appearance when new or old, making them wonderful, enduring gifts.
- Regular use can improve the soil's structure and water retention.
- Some gardeners experience a reduction in slug and snail activity.
- The metal provides a natural defence against harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Are there any disadvantages of copper and bronze tools?
- Copper and bronze are not as hard as steel, so if your tool hits a rock or other hard surface forcefully, it may dent. Unlike steel tools, copper tools can be beaten back into shape without heating, and this will not weaken them.
- The appearance of verdigris, a bluish-green deposit we've come to appreciate for its unique colour, is a sign of corrosion caused by acids present in rainwater or chemicals. Should verdigris appear, it can easily be wiped or polished away, but should not be left. Copper's natural patina is a mottled chestnut or grey-brown, and it is completely harmless.
- Since copper is an excellent conductor, copper and bronze tools should be kept away from electrical sources.
The copper tools in my range are made by PKS Bronze in Bad Ischl, Austria.
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