Recycling old dirt in plant pots

Hello! I apologize if this is listed somewhere else but I can't seem to find any information.

I have moved to a smaller place and have old dirt in pots that I hate to throw into the garbage. In the pots is mostly dirt, but also old roots, some composted material and yard trimmings. I called Vancouver Landfill about their Yard Trimming Composting, but they said the dirt would clog their machines.

Does anyone have any suggestions on a good place to "donate" some of this soil?

 

Use it as mulch on the garden soil.

 

Yes, just scatter it among planted areas. Nature (rain, worms, etc.) will recycle it.

 

Thanks! However, I'm sorry, I wasn't clear. I've moved to a much smaller apartment and only have enough room for a few pots on the balcony. It's at capacity now and I still have about ten pots full of dirt left over. I don't know anyone with a house with proper garden beds where I can scatter the soil around.

Is there anything like compost donation in the city? Perhaps at community gardens? It is good dirt and I hate to think of it going to a landfill.

Thank you so much for your responses!

 

Community gardens would be a good idea. They'll have their own compost heap it can be tipped on.

Might be best to sterilise it first, pour boiling water on it or 'cook' it in a microwave, to kill any possible pests or diseases.