In a recent posting a request was made for information on the use of natural fertilizers. The following N-P-K information is approximate at best and applies only to old, composted manure.
Chicken: 30-14-7 Cow: 10-3-8 Hog: 13-7-11 Horse: 15-5-13 Mixtures of the desired strength may be made by following the following steps: � Measure the small amount of composted manure necessary to produce fertilizer of the desired strength. 1 tsp. per gal. (3.8 liters) is approximately equivalent to commercial fertilizer mixed at 1/10 tsp. per gal. (3.8 liters). 2.5 tsp. per gal. (3.8 liters) is approximately equivalent to commercial fertilizer mixed at 1/4 tsp. per gal. (3.8 liters). 5 tsp. per gal. (3.8 liters) is approximately equivalent to commercial fertilizer mixed at 1/2 tsp. per gal. (3.8 liters). � Mix the manure with at least 1 cup (236 ml) of water, and allow it to steep overnight or longer. � Strain the liquid, then add enough water to make 1 gal. (3.8 liters) of fertilizer solution. Rather than dink with small batches, I tend to buy a bag of chicken manure and a bag of cow manure at the local garden store in late winter or early spring, mix them together and put them in a burlap bag that is then tied off (this is so you don't have to strain the mixture before use) and placed in a 30 gallon garbage can. Enough water is then added to cover the bag and to almost fill the can. This concoction is left to stand until I start applying fertilizer. I then dip out the desired amount of concentrate and mix with water. For orchids, I usually use about a quarter cup per gallon. For garden and bedding plants, I mix the manure tea at about 1 cup per gallon. I hope this answers whatever questions you might have had. Cheers, Charlie _______________________________________________ the OrchidGuide Digest (OGD) [email protected] http://orchidguide.com/mailman/listinfo/orchids_orchidguide.com
