For the third consecutive year I’m attempting a covered patio garden. Last year, I planted a dwarf lime tree. I had visions of a summer spent watching television in my underwear drinking gin and tonics while plucking limes off my own tree. Unfortunately, although I dutily studied the correct fertilization and watering methods, the tree died before I had a chance to live out my fantasy. I still have the large pot with the dead tree sunk into the dirt.
Today I was at Home Depot searching for another summer project and I couldnt decide if my old dirt remains growth worthy or does its natural beneficial nutrients dissipate like five year old vicadin.
Yes, soil can “go bad” by means of depletion. IANAGardener but you should be able to restore nutrients to your soil through conditioners and fertilizers. Perhaps someone from your local garden center could consult with you on the specifics of your soil?
We must ask the circumstances of the tree’s death first. Did it gradually yellow and fade from lack of iron, get the life sucked out of it by mealybugs, or did winged monkeys pluck off all its foliage?
Seriously, if it just up and died for no apparent reason, and the soil was good for a potted plant to begin with (lightweight but moisture retentive), it should be fine for re-use.