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Produce => Pests & Diseases => Topic started by: plotstoeat on October 26, 2018, 13:17:48

Title: sterilizing compost
Post by: plotstoeat on October 26, 2018, 13:17:48

I have riddled some of my home made compost but it will contain lots of beasties. Can't really be bothered sterilizing it unless someone can tell me an easy way

Title: Re: sterilizing compost
Post by: Tee Gee on October 26, 2018, 14:12:23

Quote

but it will contain lots of beasties.

By beasties you you mean 'nasties' such as vine weevil grubs,slugs & snails or do you mean 'common or garden'  beasties  (pardon the pun) such as worms, wood lice etc?

If you mean the latter then I see no problem I have a habit of using this type of 'used compost' for just general potting up and usually it is OK.

Having said that;  I would never use it for seed sowing or propagation I would always use new (supposedly sterile) compost!

Title: Re: sterilizing compost
Post by: tricia on October 26, 2018, 14:50:57

I use the microwave!  2 litres at a time for 5 minutes then spread out on a tray till cold and use for seed germination. Works for me!

Tricia :wave:

Title: Re: sterilizing compost
Post by: ACE on October 27, 2018, 10:46:15

Just spread it out and let the birds have pick over it.

Title: Re: sterilizing compost
Post by: plotstoeat on October 27, 2018, 12:27:20

Quote from: ACE on October 27, 2018, 10:46:15

Just spread it out and let the birds have pick over it.

I like this idea as it involves little effort ans feeds the birds. Interesting replies.