Forum home Tools and techniques

Well rotted horse manure

I have a shed load of well rotted horse manure gifted by a lovely new neighbour. However, I’m still very new to gardening and desperate to learn but googling everything isn’t proving particularly fruitful given I’m still learning all the terminology.
I have a large garden which needs some designing as has very little direction or planting currently - I’m slowly (very slowly) getting there.. Magnolia, Rose, hostas (potted), clematis, dahlia, peony, fuschia hydrangea, camellia, lavender/lavandula, and lots of daffs, tulips, alliums etc. Also have made a few raised beds for some veggies - yet to be planted. 
So, what can I use this manure on? Is spring an ok time to use it? Like I say it’s well rotted but I’ve no idea what to do with it, I keep reading about mulching but I’ve no clue if this is the same thing or another task I need to do?.. presume I need to get a gardening dictionary! Send help!

Posts

  • PosyPosy Posts: 3,601
    Welcome to the forum! Well rotted horse manure is wonderful for gardens and you can spread a layer on bare soil to improve it before planting, or around established plants at any time of year, so long as the soil is not very wet or very dry. (Don't let it touch the stems)

    If you are still at the planning stage you can keep the manure for when you make new borders or you can use it to boost shrubs and trees you intend to keep. All the plants you name, except perhaps the lavender, will love it.

    I know Googling is fantastic but could I also suggest a good basic gardening book to give structure to your learning?
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 52,134
    As @Posy says - it's best used on any bare areas you want to plant up later on to improve the soil, whether it's sticky wet clay, or dry  and sandy.  Fresh stuff can damage plants if it's in close contact, but if yours is definitely well rotted, it'll be fine.
    You can also just pile it up in a corner somewhere, to use later on too.  Beds and borders always benefit from organic matter added regularly, so you can use it around plants whenever you want  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Sign In or Register to comment.