I purchased 10 bags of potting soil today (on clearance so I can't return it) from the Chinese Embassy (Walmart). I only needed 2 (lowering head in shame).
What are my chances of this being usable in the spring if stored behind the shed this winter?
I used some this past spring that was at least three years old.... probably older. It was just fine. I suppose its just mainy dirt?? I keep at least 20 bag of it. My plants all did well so I would not worry about it.
Just keep them dry and no worries. It'll last pretty much forever. I stumbled across some bags of potting soil in the back of the shed that had been there since the late 70's or early 80's. I used them last summer to grow all sorts of potted herbs and they did spectacularly.
If you let the soil dry out completelly, it kills all the helpful micro organisms, and the soil will have no value so make sure it is kept damp (about the dampness of when you bought it.)
Did you check the "Best if used by" date stamped on the bag?
Seriously though ... what's in it will be in it whenever you use it.
If you hadn't bought it, it likely would have sat in a warehouse somewhere untill spring anyway.
No, potting soil doesn't expire. You said you were planning on using the remainder in sprng...That will be fine. If you are worried about any nutrient loss, you can always mix in some compost with it when you go to use it. I'd do that anyway...compost builds soil structure and helps balance water requirements as well as providing nutrients for your plants.
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Survivalist Forum
11.6M posts
167.1K members
Since 2007
A forum community dedicated to survivalists and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about collections, gear, DIY projects, hobbies, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!