Sterilizing tools

[JaneEyre]

I was wondering what is adequate for sterilizing cutting tools. I understand there are several methods. Blow torch is probably one of the best ones, but sure takes a little set up. If I need to cut something on occasion on one plant only, can I just throw the tools in the dishwasher afterward? Does that kill plant viruses? I have tried small dilution of bleach before and rubbing alcohol. I am not sure if either method is good.
I am wondering what you all do...

[tucker85]

I use a blow torch now. You're right it is a little bit of a hassel. I have heard that a bleach solution works but I don't know what strength you should use.

[britbloke]

I've tried, isopropyl alcohol (which is easy) TSP solution (which takes several cutting tools to be effective) and a propane torch...

I liked the idea of TSP, until I got an instant propane torch. I like the torch best if you can ignite it instantly...

I'm not sure the dishwasher will do it, but I often cut several plants in a 'session' so that's not a method I have thought about.

[Brotherly Monkey]

micro-torch. probably less set-up than breaking out rags and alcohol

[JaneEyre]

I'm not familiar with TSP solution, but I could look into a micro-torch. I saw few on Amazon that are reasonably priced.

[Baz in Oz]

I am led to believe that heating works but the catch is that you have to heat until a dull red is achieved which isn't good news for the tools.

Baz

[goodgollymissmolly]

I have long said on this and other forums that no scientific evidence exists to support any virus sterilization method other than intense heat, like a torch. Well now that's changed.

The American Hosta Society has been sponsoring research with a world class virus expert for several years now to learn a number things about transmission of Hosta Virus X. Initial results are now available on the AHS website. Remember this applies directly to only HVX, but I'm willing to extrapolate it to other viruses. What you do is entirely up to you. The good thing is that this research is done scientifically by a virus expert, not some garage experiment by a novice.

I have summarized some of the results below, but I'm reluctant to quote it verbatim due to copyright concerns. Go to the AHS website yourself.

"All tested methods of decontamination — household detergent (Dawn), 70% alcohol and 10% solution of household bleach — were effective in eliminating infectivity of the virus. The decontamination process included intense scrubbing and cleaning of tools, ......... It is not enough to simply dip tools in cleaning solution. Tools must be scrubbed free of all dirt and debris."

The source above is the American Hosta Society website. This is good news in my opinion. Remember that a 10% bleach solution is one part purchased bleach (about 6.5% sodium hypochlorite) to 9 parts water. Chlorox brand bleach is 6-6.5 % sodium hypochlorite other cheaper brands contain less active bleach so reading the label might be important.

[Discus]

For quick, once off cuts people often use disposable blades like razor blades and the like - they're fairly sterile when you get them anyway (at least, you should be able to expect they're not covered in plant virii!).

A dishwasher would probably kill/remove plant viruses, particularly on higher heat settings.

I'd still probably flame-sterilise just before cutting through if I were being super-careful!

Some people have suggested that alcohol isn't the best thing to use as it tends to "fix" the offending particles to the blade.

Dull/glowing red you can pretty much assume everything is dead and gone!

[Brotherly Monkey]

Originally Posted by Discus

For quick, once off cuts people often use disposable blades like razor blades and the like - they're fairly sterile when you get them anyway (at least, you should be able to expect they're not covered in plant virii!).

A dishwasher would probably kill/remove plant viruses, particularly on higher heat settings.

I'd still probably flame-sterilise just before cutting through if I were being super-careful!

Some people have suggested that alcohol isn't the best thing to use as it tends to "fix" the offending particles to the blade.

Dull/glowing red you can pretty much assume everything is dead and gone!

I just have a jar set aside for used blades. And once full, bake them in the oven for a few hours

[Gin]

I use a torch bought from Wal Mart new cylinders available there as well .
The cutters are cheap ones from the anything for a 1$ store they last fairly well when they are wrecked trash gets them . I also buy small scissors at the same store .