Manure

Manure, another non-chemical fertilizer, can be a great help in your yard or garden, too. If you want to use straight manure though, you must be very careful and knowledgeable about how to use it.

A few things to consider about manure:

1. Improper distribution of manure in your garden can actually harm your plants. It is a very concentrated fertilizer and can accidentally burn your plants. Compost, on the other hand, is a more diffuse way of delivering nutrients to the plants. Use straight manure with care, and do a little bit of research.

2. Actually, do a lot of research. Different animal manures have different proportions of different necessary macronutrients for your soil. Each plant has its own special needs in terms of soil fertilization also. You have to know some chemistry and a good bit about each plant you're growing to really take advantage of the power of manure and to prevent over fertilizing "light feeders." Although compost is less crop-specific in its nutrition, it is thoroughly universal.

3. Remember to be aware of the source of your manure. You want no manure from cats or dogs and no manure that may carry diseases. Also, if possible, find out what the diet of the animal donors in question is like. Many horse manures contain lots of weed seeds that happily spring to life in your garden.

From a sustainability standpoint, composting is a must. It is the most environmentally responsible way to dispose of your organic waste. Do not use manure in your garden in place of creating your own compost. Of course, (minding #3 above) consider putting manure into your compost pile/bin. Combined with your regular yard waste and kitchen scraps, manure can help build your compost into a wonderful asset for your lawn or garden.