Nursery pots and garden tools are meant to last more than one season. Unfortunately, some plant diseases, pests, and pathogens can also persist on these items from one season to the next. Fungal spores, bacterial films, and even virus particles may remain on soil residues or in small crevices in tools and containers. At the start of the season, carefully disinfect your garden tools to reduce the risk of carrying problems into the new growing cycle. It’s also important to disinfect shears and secateurs between plants, since the blades can pick up a plant virus from one plant and mechanically transmit it to the next.

Any time you're reusing pots and containers, a thorough cleaning followed by a disinfectant treatment is recommended. Removing old soil and organic debris first is essential, because disinfectants work far more effectively on clean surfaces. This simple step can significantly reduce the likelihood of spreading soil-borne diseases to new plants.

Here are recommended options from OSU Extension Service: