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Bleach in the garden #315920

Asked April 24, 2016, 1:01 PM EDT

My wife decided to wash all of the lawn furniture with a mixture of bleach,  soap & water.  The water runoff caused all of the hostis to die.  My question is how long will the effects of bleach stay in the dirt as I would like to replant this year.  It has been 3 years since this happened. 
Thank you for any help you can offer.

Bob

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,
The bleach should have dissipated by now. Are there any weeds that grow in the area?
If so, it is safe to plant your hosta. Before planting amend your soil with a  2 inch layer of fresh compost worked into the soil. Then plant some inexpensive annuals in the area, like begonias, after danger of frost has past. In your area that is around May 25.

If the annuals do OK, you can plant your hostas. If nothing wants to grow, you can keep 'rinsing' the soil with a hose and let it drain, dry out, then repeat. Do this 3-4 times then try some inexpensive annuals again.

Here is a link to information on chlorine. It notes that the lab doesn't test for it in soil because chlorine won't stay in the soil.

The chlorine could have raised the salt level in the soil. Some soaps can, too. You can have the soil tested for salt level- www.msusoiltest.com. Salt is not in the basic test, you will have to ask for a salt test specifically. Contact the MSU soil lab and ask what they need from you to test the salt level <personal data hidden>).

One final option is to remove the affected soil down to at least 8 inches, 12 would be better, and replace it with fresh soil.

Thank you for using our service.
Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied April 25, 2016, 3:38 PM EDT

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