This Forum will close on Wednesday 27 March, 2024. Please refer to the announcement on the Discussions page for further detail.
How long to wait with bagged manure
Loz46
Posts: 103
in Fruit & veg
Hi guys Last year I dug some compost in some of the allotment that I got from a local stables, it was well rotted. I've got some more from them recently, and it's not as well rotted, and therefore I'm wondering what to do with it. Am I right in thinking it will be fine to dig in the ground for veg that will be growing above ground this summer? Eg. Cucumbers, tomatoes. I know that compost should be dug in the previous Autumn for areas where you will be growing root vegetables the following spring, but if I buy bagged compost, as this will be well rotted and less rich, could I safely dig this in now, and be able to grow root veg this year without problems? I am specifically looking at Grosure Manure, 3 x 70l for ??10 at Wickes. Or am I best just digging in some multipurpose compost for root veg at this relatively late stage? Everyone's thoughts much appreciated as always. Lauren
0
Posts
Loz, I use that exact same bagged manure and have excellent results when used directly at planting time but I wouldn't use it (or any other manure, no matter how well rotted) with root crops. Carrots and parsnips will still fork and basically just don't need such a rich soil; A sprinking of fish blood and bone when preparing the area is more than sufficient. By all means dig-in multi-purpose compost and sharp sand to make a nice fine soil in the area (which root crops will appreciate) but leave the manure out.