How to Sterilize Soil for African Violets

Natives to East Africa, African violets (Saintpaulia ionantha) are prolific bloomers that require little space to grow. Potted African violets flourish indoors when the temperatures remain steadily between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, while preferring cooler inside temperatures of 65 degrees at night. These windowsill-loving beauties are not fussy when it comes to light or soils. But African violets do grow best in soil that is free of disease and dangerous microorganisms, so if you plan to use soil from your garden, soil sterilization is a must.

Things You'll Need

• Large, oven-safe container
• Hand shovel
• Water
• Oven
• Oven mitt
• Heat-resistant surface for cooling

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Place the desired amount of garden soil into a large, oven-safe container. Break up any large chunks of soil with your hands or a hand shovel to create a fine potting mix.

   • 2

     Add just enough water to the soil to dampen. The soil should be slightly moist to the touch, not sopping wet.

   • 3

     Preheat the oven to a temperature between 160 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Slide the container into the oven and heat for approximately 45 minutes.

   • 4

     Slip on an oven mitt and remove the container from the oven after the heating period. Lay the container on a heat-resistant surface and allow the sterilized soil to cool before use.