Media sterilization

Would a bleach solution be good to sterilize the peat /perlite rooting mix.

Thanks

Gary

Bleach decomposes pretty quickly when it comes in contact with organic material, so I don't know that it would hold up long enough to do a good job sterilizing. Plus when it breaks down, one of the byproducts is salt which is not good to have a lot of in your soil. So I'd suggest doing it with the oven instead, that'll do a better job and won't leave anything behind http://www.ehow.com/how_2060243_sterilize-potting-soil.html You can use the microwave too (google for instructions, but with that you have to be careful that the soil is moist or else it can explode)

Yikes, I use the microwave but never knew it could explode. I guess I've always added enough moisture.

Karen

Thanks Ecrane
I will try the microwave method.

Gary

Karen
Do you sterilize your peat/vermiculite mixes ?

Do you do any seeds under lights as well as wintersowing?


I always like to hear of your experience.

Yes, I kind of dabble with a only a few seeds inside. More for a little entertainment than actual productive growing of any amount. For that I sterilize the media. I wintersow most of my seeds and never sterilize for that. Heck, the containers aren't even too clean.

Karen