Microwaves and soil sterilization
 

I wonder if I'm the only one who does this? I make my seed starting mix in a large tupperware tub, moisten it and then cook it a few minutes in the microwave till its about 175 F throughout. I almost never have any problems with seedlings damping off.

that's pasteurization temps, it's commonly used in mushroom production only not in microwaves and usually done for a prolonged period of time like a couple hours or more. i used to put vermiculite in the microwave to cook it before using it as a casing layer on a mushroom colony.

after you mic it (and let it cool) try adding some beneficial micros and fungi to colonize your cooked seed starter after it cools and that will also help prevent fungus related problems like damping off and improve the seedlings vigor

I just use the SunGro or Jiffy mix and never have any problems.

When I was growing up, my father cooked the potting mix in the oven. It was the family joke about what's for dinner!

You can also put the moistened mix in a partially closed zip lock bag in the microwave. Watch out for steam from the opening and use pot holders!

Rick

I find all of this unnecessary, just use the proper watering methods, dont keep the soil too damp and use diluted hydrogen peroxide.

One part peroxide to ten parts water in a spray bottle.
Spray soil and plant, that is all that is needed.

Worth