Follow these expert-recommended steps for reusing old potting soil.

Gloved hands holding mounds of soil and compost in a wheelbarrow - Boyloso/Getty Images We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. If you're a container gardener, you know the struggle: ...

Have a stack of old plant pots sitting in the garage, looking lonely and wondering if they will ever grow anything again? Reusing containers feels satisfying, saves money, and helps the planet breathe ...

Many gardeners will use a lot of potting soil each year – and it seems a shame to throw it out once it's served its purpose. The good news is that it can be reused around the backyard if it grew ...

It’s not a bad idea to be conservative. Whether we are talking about environmental conservation or being fiscally conservative, as gardeners, there are decisions we can make to conserve money and ...

Containers half-filled with old potting soil await after a long winter. The soil they contain is dry, dusty, and full of hairy roots—nothing like the dark, fluffy, moist potting mix you started with ...

Q: I have had trouble growing Russelia (firecracker fern) in pots. They get full sun. I bring them in during cold weather. I keep the soil moist and give them fertilizer. They thrive in the ground ...

The potted annuals and herbs on my patio are starting to look pretty sorry. I'm starting to plan fall flowers to take their place. It occurred to me: can I reuse the potting soil already in the ...

Dear Neil: Can I reuse potting soil I had in large containers on my patio last summer? A: I normally do not, at least not in the same pots without taking it out and adding in “fresh” organic matter.

Using old potting soil can lead to root rot, stunted growth, and unhealthy plants.