In nature, seeds will sprout in any suitable soil. Many plant lovers are therefore wondering whether it is really necessary to sterilize potting soil and make it germ-free in this way. But this is the only way you can safely protect the young plants from being destroyed almost overnight by rapidly spreading mold or rot.
Anyone who sterilizes potting soil counteracts weeds
This is how you have to proceed:
The easiest way to sterilize self-made seed soil in the home is to use heat. This can be done either in the oven or in the microwave. To do this, proceed as follows:
- Moisten the substrate slightly.
- Spread flat in a bowl.
- Heat in the microwave for 10 minutes on high. Stir a thick layer of soil in between.
- The substrate is sterilized in the oven at 200 degrees top/bottom heat for 30 minutes.
Allow the soil to cool thoroughly before use.
tips
The previously black potting soil has gotten white spots as a result of the treatment? These are tiny insect larvae or worms that have been killed and denatured by sterilization. They are made of protein that has changed color from the heat. But this is not a reason to worry, the material can still be used without any problems.