Fresh potting soil provides the medium in which plants will grow roots. Make sure your container potting soil is up to snuff.
As you begin your yearly home and garage decluttering in preparation for Spring, don't toss that partial bag of last year's potting soil.
Potting soil is the primary supplier of nutrients to annuals and perennials planted in the confines of an outdoor container. In most cases, potting soil in pots is worth saving rather than tossing in Fall.
Potting soil is the primary supplier of nutrients to annuals and perennials planted in the confines of an outdoor container. In most cases, potting soil in pots is worth saving rather than tossing in Fall.
If the mix still drains well, smells fresh, and isn’t riddled with roots or pests, it can be reused next season (but it will need a refresh).
Start by pulling out old roots and debris, then loosen the soil and amend it with two to three inches of rich compost and 50% fresh potting soil to replace nutrients that were used up. Till in well to help restore structure and aeration.
Potting soil that has been stored dry and protected from rain and snow can be used in Spring plantings, especially for annuals and non-fussy container plants.
That said, there are times when it’s best to let potting soil go. If container plants struggled with disease, insect infestations, or persistent fungus gnats, reusing that soil risks carrying problems into Spring. Best to dispose of it.
Soil that has become compacted, waterlogged, or salty from heavy fertilizer use is another candidate for disposal.
A simple rule of thumb: if the soil supported healthy growth last season and still looks and smells good, save it and amend it as noted above. If not, compost it or spread it thinly in the landscape and start fresh in spring.
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