Is there a better way?

[Dart21]

The bleach will not stay in the pots if properly rinsed. We use this practice in multiple greenhouses I have worked in with no detriment to the plants ;-). Isopropyl alcohol is especially safe, you can even spray it straight onto the plants and they don't seem to mind... may even enjoy a little "buzz" heh. Kidding of course.

[katrina]

Originally Posted by weederwoman

I worry about bleach staying in the clay pots even after rinsing. Would soaking in physan 20 work as well and be safer than clorine?

Laurel

I don't know enough about Physan 20 to be sure but looking at the MSDS sheet...it doesn't appear to be any safer than chlorine bleach. W/the exception of some of the possible respiratory issues that can come w/chlorine(use in a very well ventilated space!)...they both carry some of the same warnings.

I do know that I've been cleaning my pots like this for a couple of years and I know other growers who have been doing it for MUCH longer than I...never a problem. But, remember, after a good rinse, I do allow the clay pots to sit out in the sun for a couple of weeks before I use them.

Originally Posted by RJSquirrel

the plastic pots are so cheap it cost more to spend 6 hours washing them than replacing them...

Well, I suppose if you buy really cheap pots then I'd agree but I don't buy cheap plastic pots. I prefer aircone pots and some of the other more expensive hydro pots. So, I'm not just pitching. I consider it worth my time to wash and reuse. Same goes for the clay pots that don't need to be broken to get a plant out...worth washing rather than just pitching and buying new.

Originally Posted by james mickelso

I think all that is a waste of time unless you are a commercial grower. A quick dunk in bleach will be just fine.

A quick dunk in bleach...sterile, yes...but clean, no. Some of us want them to look clean too.

[K.C.]

Yes I am using them for orchids. If I use a pot for dirt for something I toss it.

[WhiteRabbit]

Chlorine evaporates quickly. Rinse after soak, allow to completely dry and bleach should be gone.