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Home Ask MG Reusing potting soil

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Reusing potting soil

March 29, 2009   •   

I have a large pot in which I planted petunias last summer. Can I reuse the soil in the pot to plant again this summer?

It is not recommended to reuse soil for more than one season if you use a heavy topsoil type mix. However, many “soiless” types of potting mixes, which are made up of Canadian peat, perlite and vermiculite can be partially reused if you follow these easy steps. Empty the soil from the containers into a large wheelbarrow. Break up any clumps of soil and gently turn mix with your hands. Let the soil air out in a dry place for 12 hours. Add the equivalent amount of fresh potting soil to your old mix to replenish nutrients that were lost over the season.

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