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manure tea question
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Posted by spivey13 zone 4/5 IA (My Page) on Mon, May 16, 05 at 14:36
I'm sorry if this is a newbie question, but I was wondering when I could put some manure tea on my flowers, or rather flowers-to-be. I planted a lot of scabiosa, achillea, coral bells, snaps, larkspur, ageratum, etc, and everything is about 2 - 3 inches high. The weather has been nuts--from hot to cold and no rain to 4 inches in a couple of days. Everything has been in the ground a couple of weeks, and just seems to be at a standstill. So, should I douse them with some manure tea or no? I have a big container with horse manure in it, about 1/4 manure and 3/4 water, and it's been sitting a week. From what I've read, I should let it sit another week or so, then drain some off and add enough water to it to make "tea", then apply. Is anyone doing something differently?
Thanks for your help. I've learned so much from this forum, it's amazing!
Cathy |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: manure tea question
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| I would use some alfalfa with it. It has a growth stimulant in it that seems to give miraculous results. Use untreated alfalfa meal, sprinkle it on and work into the soil or it will dry to a water-repelling crust. I started using it on my roses and was amazed at what it did for the plants around them! OR you s could add the alfalfa to your manure tea barrel...I unerstand it makes a horrible stink but i everything loves it! |
RE: manure tea question
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Thanks LizaLily! Is it ever too early to use the manure tea on new transplants? I don't want to overwhelm them or anything. I will add the alfalfa meal to the barrel for sure--thanks for the tip! I'll let you know how it works.
Cathy |
RE: manure tea question
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| Yes, it can be too early to use it on new plants and transplants. Manure tea, while it has its uses, is high in nitrogen and can be harsh for new plants. Be sure to use it about every two weeks or so, and well watered down. But wait until the plants are up a bit higher yet. |
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