Should I Boil Potting Soil?

Whether you've just bought yourself some seed starter or potting mix from the store, or you have a handful of soil from your garden, it's important to sterilize the soil before using it for planting. The easiest way to do this is to use boiled water.

How do you sterilize potting soil before using?

Sterilizing Soil with Steam

Steaming is considered one of the best ways to sterilize potting soil and should be done for at least 30 minutes or until the temperature reaches 180 degrees F. (82 C.). Steaming can be done with or without a pressure cooker.

Do you need to sterilize potting soil?

Sterilizing potting soil is very important when sowing seeds, seedlings, and cuttings. Soil naturally contains pathogens, harmful bacteria, and fungi that can harm or kill susceptible plants. Insects and larvae may also be present, and they can also harm plants and become a nuisance.