Sterilizing Peat Moss: Boiling Works, But Fungicide Still Needed for Cuttings

Eric asked if boiling water sterilizes peat moss, and if not, how to do it.

Boiling Is Effective

Jeff Dallas: Boiling peat in a pot achieves total sterilization. Pouring boiling water over trays/cells kills algae and many fungal spores (brief heat may not kill tough spores).

Still Use Fungicide for Cuttings

Airborne spores contaminate quickly. Jeff still uses fungicide spray during propagation despite sterilized media.

Good Growing!
Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
www.growcarnivorousplants.com