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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Kymura" data-source="post: 60602" data-attributes="member: 4072">or, you can buy some sterile topsoil that's been steam treated to kill  any unwanted seeds, worms, worm eggs or pests. Or simply purchase some that's not been treated with fertilizers and sterilize it yourself.Not rocket science here folks. <a href="http://tipnut.com/sterilize-soil/" target="_blank">http://tipnut.com/sterilize-soil/</a>Oven Method: (small batches)<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Fill an ovenproof container about 3 inches deep with soil, mix in a generous amount of water (not enough to make it runny or soupy but thoroughly wet) then cover with aluminum foil.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Bake in a preheated oven (200°F) until the temperature of the center reaches 180°F (use a meat thermometer to measure). Once the temperature reaches 180°F, bake for 30 minutes.</li> </ul>Microwave Method: (small batch)<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">To use the microwave, put about 2 pounds of moist soil in a thick, plastic bag. Leave the top open and place it in the center of the microwave.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Heat it for two to five minutes on full power, checking the temperature in the middle of the dirt with a thermometer. When the target is reached (180°F to 200°F), close the bag carefully and put in a cooler to hold the heat in.</li> </ul></blockquote>