Using Moldy Soil

by Cheryl
(Winnipeg)

I have some lightly used soil (for stuff like herbs--used only once) that has been stored too long in bags and has gotten slightly moldy.

Is it going to cause problems if I throw it in my garden boxes? I know it's not ideal but I can't afford to buy soil now and I have a lot stored.

In a garden, the soil gets reused over and over again, and there's really always mold present so if the conditions are changed (dark, warm, moist, low air - to airy, sunny and well drained) the mold should just die right?


ANSWER:

Yes, the mold will die when exposed to sunshine and good air circulation.

I would add the soil to your planters a small 2-3 inch layer at a time, so that the sunshine will have a chance to kill all the mold. Leave each layer for a few sunny days before adding the next layer.

Mix the last layer well before adding the next layer.

If you add a deep layer of moldy soil all at once, the sun won't reach and kill all the mold. Moldy soil could have an adverse effect on your garden plants.