Manure In The Garden

By: Ron Cusano                   Mar. 1, 2009                             Vol. 2  Article 1006

     Up until the early 1900’s, barnyard manure was the primary fertilizer for gardens and farms.  The “mega-farms” that we see today were unheard of, and most food was produced on small, family owned farms. And “horsepower” actually came from horses, instead of high compression gasoline engines, so there was an abundance of manure available for gardens and agriculture.  The advent of chemical and petroleum based fertilizers changes the practice and focus of farming and gardening, to the detriment of the soil and our corporate health.
     Nevertheless, barnyard manure remains one of the finest fertilizers and soil amendments there is, and should be considered like gold to organic gardeners. There is much controversy over the safe uses of animal manures in the garden, not to mention a lot of false information and panic. Bear in mind that fresh and composted manures were used for countless years, and are still being used, safely and without major incidence. The general rule of thumb for using fresh manure is to incorporate it into the soil at least 90 days before harvesting crops that do not come into direct contact with the soil, and 120 days for crops that do come into direct contact with the soil.
     Manure add a substantial amount of nitrogen to the soil, plus lesser amounts of phosphorus and potassium, trace minerals and a lot of organic matter. It is natures perfect fertilizer. The dried commercial manures found in garden centers offer far less of the natural nutrients available from fresh manure.  Composted manure is also a great fertilizer, providing that it has been processed properly, and lot allowed to leach out a good amount of the nutrients. A pile of manure left exposed to the elements for long periods of time looses much of it’s fertilizer value.
     Barnyard manure is available, free and easy to find, even here on Long Island, if you look around and ask. There are still many who keep horses and other farm animals on small parcels amidst our developments, townhouses and condos, and are willing and always looking for ways to dispose of their constant supply of manure. (** see the link on the top of this page for some local free sources)
     In addition to manure, Long Island is rich in sources of organic matter for garden use. Grass clippings are a valuable mulch, compost ingredient and soil amendment. Find a local landscaper that specializes in organic lawn care, and he will be more than glad to provide you will all the organic grass clipping you can use. Local friends and neighbors that grow organic lawns would also be a great source.
     In Spring and Fall, there is an abundance of leaves available, usually bagged and waiting by the curb.
Invest in a power shredder and you will have an endless supply of organic mulch that is rich in trace minerals and makes a great soil amendment. In a pinch, your lawn mower will do the job of shredding for small quantities.  Not only will you be greatly benefitting your garden and soil, but you will be helping the environment and rescuing valuable organic materials from over filled landfills.
  

Blessings,

Ron
“The Garden Guy”