sterilizing soil-Help!

Woonsocket, RI(Zone 6b)

I had found on one of the forums, how to sterilize soil in the microwave but I can't find it.
I'll post this question in a few places. I'm starting some annuals and veggies in the new greenhouse my hubby built for me. I,m sure with all I'm planting, I'll need more sterile soil than I already have. I have some jiffy mix, but I,m going to run out before I'm done. Does anyone know how to sterilize soil in the microwave?

Noblesville, IN(Zone 5a)

I found this info. for you. Hope it helps.

Microwave Oven Method-You also can sterilize soil in a microwave. Microwave soil for 90 seconds per kilogram (2.2 pounds) on full power. Don't use metal containers and aluminum foil when using a microwave. Two methods suggested by others are:

1. Fill clean, quart-size plastic containers with very moist soil, perlite or cutting medium. Check the rims of the containers to make sure there is no aluminum of any kind because some yogurt containers come with a foil seal. Use clean plastic yogurt containers with lids on for sterilizing soil. This is done using a temperature probe inside a carousel-type microwave oven, heating to 200F and holding that temperature with the digital oven program for 20 minutes. Poke a hole through the plastic lids with a nail for steam ventilation. The temperature probe goes half way down into the soil through this hole in one of the containers. In a large microwave, up to 7 quart containers can be sterilized at a time, making this a very efficient way to heat sterilize soil. Allow to cool and tape over the hole in the lid to keep sterile until ready to use.

2. Place approximately 2 pounds of moist soil in a polypropylene bag. Leave the top open and place in the center of a microwave oven. Treat for 2½ minutes on full power of about 650 watts. After treatment close the top of the bag and allow the soil to cool before removing.





Woonsocket, RI(Zone 6b)

Thanks!

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