The use of manure in farming began thousands of years ago, and from Third World farms to America's own back-yard gardens, the manure movement continues. Routine application of animal manure to garden soil is one of the best things that can be done to improve the soil. Manure supplies soil with all sorts of essential nutrients, some of which can't be found in commercial fertilizers. Manure is rich in organic matter--something all garden soil needs more of. Some manures are higher in certain nutrients than others because the animal's diet and the way it digests its food affect the content and quality of the manure. All manures contain the things soils and plants need most: nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, beneficial bacteria and organic matter. Dog and cat manure should never be used in the garden because it may contain harmful organisms that are dangerous to people, especially children. To locate sources of manure, contact people who raise cows, horses, pigs, rabbits or chickens. They'll probably let you take a load home. Stables and ranches are often listed in the Yellow Pages. State fairs and traveling circuses are great sources of free manure mixed with hay or sawdust, which makes for an ideal combination of ingredients. The local zoo may also offer free manure, and in many cases a zoo is the most convenient source for urban gardeners. What's more, zoos offer a range of exotic manures, such as that from lions, tigers and bears, and some people believe the manure of predators helps deter garden pests such as rabbits and deer. If these products aren't available, go to your local nursery or home-and-garden center, which will carry packaged manure products, from cow and steer manure to worm castings and bat guano. Manure should never be used fresh because as it decomposes it releases harmful compounds (such as ammonia) that can burn plant roots. It may also contain thousands of weed seeds. Compost the manure first, either alone or in combination with other forms of organic matter such as leaves and grass clippings. Let the pile cook from two to 12 months. Then spread the composted manure around existing plants, or mix it into unplanted garden soils. Manure tea is a great tonic for your plants, and it's easy to make. Just place a scoop of composted or fresh manure in a cheesecloth sack or in old pantyhose (figure A), and soak the bag in a 5-gallon bucket overnight. Apply the tea with a watering can. Tip: - Make a "moo tea" from manure and water -- your plants will love it, says show host Kim Haworth. Place a scoop of manure in the center of a square of cheesecloth, then pull up the sides and tie it, kerchief-style. Dangle the "moo tea bag" in a bucket of water overnight or even for a week or two (figure B). Use on plants by placing some in a mist bottle and spraying the leaves. Or, water the soil Happily, most of the manure's famous fragrance will have diminished by the time the moo tea is ready to use.
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