Horse manure

Jolaaled

I have read that it's a good idea to put horse manure on veggie plots at this time of year.

I've found a local stable up the road where I've been told to 'help myself'. So tomorrow, I'll put on my wellies and go fill some bags!

Just need some advice:
is manure ok if you can still see the straw??..is this 'rotten enough?'
How to I spread it on my veggie patch..do I dig it in..if so, to what depth??

So many questions!

THANKS.

forgotmyname

If it smells its not ready, Thats what i have read.

As long is it doesnt come into contact with the seeds or young plants it will continue to rot down and not
cause any harm.

If its not fully rotted it may damage or hinder plant growth.

I would either pile it up & cover it to keep it warm and help the process or dig it in several feet away from the
area you plan to start planting, Worms and insects will help break it down and spread it.

Sally_A

Runner beans will be grateful for some, even if it's fresh-ish. If you're itching to out and do some digging - you could start a bean trench and fill it with manure and partially rotted compost from you bins. I'm thinking of lining the trench with newspapers this year to try to keep the moisture levels up.