We're officially now in March, meaning spring is just around the corner. This means longer days and hopefully warmer weather - so it's a great time to go outside and see what work needs done in the garden.

It might not be time to mow the lawn just yet, but the slight increase in temperatures means grass will start to grow again. A good lawnmower is essential for keeping your garden looking neat and tidy, and if you've got one, go out to the shed and check it now. That's the advice from shed expert Sam Jenkinson from Tiger, who says this can help you get a headstart on your gardening before spring.

He has urged UK households to check the condition of items stored in their sheds, as winter's damp, fluctuating weather may have already caused hidden damage.

Lawnmowers in particular can get rusty if they've been sitting neglected for too long over winter, especially when it comes to petrol models.

Sam explained: "The first thing to check is for signs of rust on the blade or underside. If you do find rust, this can often be fixed for as little as £2."

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Take a look at your machine and see if you can spot any surface rust. Spray it with white vinegar and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub gently with wire wool before drying thoroughly and applying a light oil.

If your mower has a stiff pull cord, this could be due to moisture, dirt build-up or lack of use. Wipe the cord clean with a dry cloth, remove any dirt and check that it isn't frayed.

Sam said: "In most cases, the mechanism has simply dried out over winter, and a silicone spray or WD-40 can often restore smooth movement in minutes."

As well as your lawnmower, garden tools are also worth checking out before spring fully arrives. Sam said: "Spades, secateurs and forks often suffer quietly over winter, especially when left on the floor or against damp walls. Before spring, check blades and joints for any rust that may have formed. Alongside this, check wooden handles for any swelling or cracking."

If your tools look rusty, soak them in a weak vinegar solution before using steel wool or a brush to remove the rust. And if any handles are cracked, apply wood glue directly to the crack and clamp the handle tightly, allowing it to dry overnight.