MamaFan said:
Is there something you recommend I should put on the exposed cuts? You mentioned you don't have much rot, but it's been an issue where I am. I'd plan to fill in with compost when I can. But maybe I should fill with ... rocks or something non-biological for a day or 2, to let the exposed cuts dry out. What do you think?
I think I will buy a hori hori. 
I cleaned and oiled just this fall, and sharpened. But I think I may be a special kind of bonehead, because my teeny handscythe and my big scissors just don't seem to hold an edge at all. I think I must not be sharpening them right. 
I'm looking at the Sensei brand right now. I need to make sure there's a hilt so I don't accidentally slip the grip and cut myself. Which I can just imagine.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00W3OTQLU/
Generally, I try do thinning during stretches of nice sunny weather. Solar radiation is an excellent disinfectant.
Can't say anything about Sensei knives, but Nisaku knives can be had for less than $25 and seem to be indestructible. I've had one for 20 years and use it for everything: planting, weeding, throwing it at rabbits, etc.. Lost it in the garden in August once and didn't find it until the next April (buried under a pile of compost). It was as shiny as the day I bought it. It's the best garden tool I've ever owned, far better than similar tools that sell for a lot more. The handle doesn't look very comfortable, but it feels good in the hand. I've never cut myself with mine due to slipping.
