Since potting soil has a limited lifespan, many gardeners recommend sterilizing and reinvigorating it before reuse — one easy method to accomplish this is using a microwave.

To use this simple trick, start by filtering out anything foreign from the potting soil. Afterward, put about 2 pounds into a microwave-safe container with a lid.

You’ll either need to put a couple of vent holes in the lid or open one side while microwaving. Microwave the container of potting soil for around a minute and a half.

When you pull it out, seal the lid or tape over the vent holes while it cools down. After it cools completely, it's considered sterilized. Reinvigorate the soil before reusing it.