For small quantities of soil, you can use a gas grill or barbecue. Place the soil in a container, cover with foil, and heat it to the required temperature for about 30 minutes.
Each method has its pros and cons. Heat-based methods like oven, microwave, and steam are effective but can be time-consuming and are limited by the quantity of soil you can sterilize at once. Solarization, while less harmful to beneficial microbes, requires a significant amount of time and may not be as effective in cooler climates or shady areas.
Remember, it’s important to maintain the health of your soil. Over-sterilization can harm beneficial microbes essential for soil health. Use sterilization methods judiciously and aim to build healthy soil through organic matter addition and proper gardening practices.
