Soil Sterilization Methods for Science Projects

Three ways to sterilize small soil samples for a science fair:

Oven: Moisten soil (not soggy), spread in shallow pan, bake at 180°F for 30 minutes. Smells bad!
Boiling water: Line colander with cheesecloth, add soil, pour boiling water through twice.
Microwave: Heat moist soil until steaming for 5 minutes.

All methods kill microorganisms. Choose based on available equipment.

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