Using old potting dirt to start seeds is a great way to make the most of your resources and salve money . I ’ve done it many times myself and have had not bad achiever . However , there are a few thing to keep in mind to assure that your seed have the skilful prospect of pullulate and growing into sound plants .
1 . Check the Quality of the Soil : Before reusing old potting soil , it ’s authoritative to assess its calibre . Look for sign of disease or pests , such as clay sculpture , fungus , or insect bollock . If you notice any of these , it ’s best to discard the dirt and start fresh . Additionally , if the territory has a nasty odor , it may be an indicant of decomposition or poor quality .
2 . Refresh the Soil : Even if the old potting soil is likely in good condition , it ’s still a effective idea to refresh it before using it for seeds . Over time , nutrient in the soil can become eat , so add some organic affair can help replenish them . you could fuse in compost , well - rotted manure , or a balanced organic fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients for seedlings .
3 . take out Debris and Weed Seeds : As you prepare the old potting soil for seed starting , make certain to transfer any large debris or weed seeded player that may be present . Use a sieve or your work force to sieve through the soil and pick out any undesirable material . This will help make a clean and weed - free environment for your seedlings .
4 . fix the Soil ( Optional ): If you want to be extra conservative and eliminate any possible pathogens or pests in the old potting soil , you may view desexualize it . One method is to bake the soil in the oven at 180 - 200 ° F ( 82 - 93 ° carbon ) for about 30 minutes . This process will belt down any harmful organism , but keep in mind that it may also ruin good microbes , so it ’s not always necessary .
5 . Test the Moisture Retention : Over meter , pot territory can become compact and lose its power to retain wet in good order . Before using it for seed depart , execute a elementary test by moisten a handful of the land and tweet it . If it guard together and releases weewee slowly , it ’s still suitable for seedling . However , if it crumbles or release water speedily , it may need some amendments to ameliorate wet retention .
6 . regard Supplemental Fertilization : While the refreshed older potting soil should supply enough nutrient for seedling ab initio , it ’s essential to supervise their ontogeny and adjust accordingly . Some seedlings may call for extra fecundation as they mature . you could use a diluted liquid fertilizer or a irksome - tone ending constitutional fertilizer concord to the specific want of your plants .
7 . Practice Crop Rotation : If you ’re reusing potting filth from former planting , it ’s a good idea to practice crop rotation . This means avoiding planting the same type of plants in the same soil for consecutive season . Crop rotation helps prevent the buildup of specific gadfly and disease that may sham sure industrial plant metal money , ensuring fitter and more fat plant .
In my experience , reusing one-time potting grime for seed starting can be a sustainable and cost - effective practice . By following these step and monitoring your seedlings ’ progress , you may successfully grow healthy plants from recycled grease . Happy gardening !
Caroline Bates
