Plastic bags slipped over a marker and secured with a plant tie will protect them from the ravages of winter. Trim the Knot Garden, especially Germanders and Green Santolinas. Gray Santolinas survive winter reasonably well, and should be trimmed in the spring. Mechanical tools, mowers, tillers, chippers have manufacturer's directions to guide you. Tool care will add years of wear to these costly items.
Every gardener needs a tool cleaning center.
Gather together, a heavy duty file, a wire brush, an old paint scraper. Pour over the sand at least a quart of used motor oil, Scrape and brush dirt from metals parts. Sharpen tools which require a cutting edge. This polishes and protects metal with a thin film of oil. Tool handles take a lot of abuse.