Well rotted organic horse compost.
2oaktrees
Posts: 160
Hey, I had several (60) bags of 40L well rotted organic horse compost delivered to mix into my beds and borders before planting. The compost is very dark and looks really good but I am yet to find out how well my plants will do with this. I have clay soil and heard its a good soil conditioner and for breaking up the clay.
Does anyone have any experience with well rotted horse manure compost?
What is the best way to dig this into my clay soil?
Once mixed, do I have to wait for it to settle in the beds for a while before I start planting.
Can I use it for Potting on?
Can I use it for Acid loving plants as it’s neutral PH?
Thank you
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If the beds are already planted, use it as a mulch around plants. The worms will pull it down into the soil. Roses in particular love this. Do not let it get in the crown of any plant, it induces rot. On empty beds I would lay it on thick, up to three or four inches deep, and then fork it in so it is thoroughly mixed before planting.
It is no good as a potting compost.
Acid loving plants, generally require an acid mulch, such as peat or pine needles.
What is well rotted compost? I have a small London garden with roses and perennials, and about to add a small cherry tree in a big pot. Will my garden benefit from using it
I think the OP meant well rotted manure which hopefully is self-explanatory but if not let's just say it's not fresh manure
. It's been sitting around for a while which I think reduces the high ammonia (nitrogen) content which would otherwise burn your plants when you spread it around them. As fidgetbones says your roses would benefit from a mulch of well rotted manure as would your perennials. Also I'd let the ground thaw out before putting it on. Not sure what weather you're currently getting.