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[email protected] · 28-04-2009, 12:34 AM posted to rec.gardens.edible

On Mon, 27 Apr 2009 23:20:54 GMT, wrote:

First time garden question....Have been reading about worm castings, and
seeking opinions......Some say pretty much the greatest fertilizer
ever...Others say home gardeners don't need fertilizer or just use composted
cow manure...I would like to get best result I can...my soil appears ok -
mostly black dirt, some clay though. Anyone here have experience with this
stuff? Which way will I get best results? Thanks

I use it in moderation - I really have no idea if it makes a
difference or not. Ibought one bag this year (so far). I use compost,
manure, used to use grass clipping, I bought seaweed concentrate and
bat guano this year - I like to experiment. Basically, the healthier
the soil and it's inhabitants, the healthier the plants.

That said, if I had a good manure source (cows,rabbits, horses,
chickens) I doubt I'd buy much of anything else. Manure and a compost
pile = gold to me. When it's time to fertilize, manure or compost tea
are delightful. Top dresssing with compost builds up the soil and the
plant. Mulching the plants with leaves or straw or grass clippings
also builds up the soil.

Have fun!

Kate