where to buy cheap organic matter to improve soil around tree?

lobbyludd

Hi,

my compost bin collapsed last year so there's no home-grown compost left, and I live in the middle of a city so no access to stables to get well-rotted horse manure.

I want to improve the soil under my lilac tree to get it to retain moisture a bit better whilst some shady plants get established.

given that I'm going to have to buy something, does anyone have any recommendations on the most cost-effective thing to buy? (small area 3-4 square meters at most)

Leif

I would visit your local garden centres and see what they have. My local ones have Mushroom Compost, which is cheap (£2.50 for about 60L) but slightly alkaline. They also have rotted farmyard manure at about £3 or £4 a bag (~60L) and Horizon organic compost (about £4 for 60L). I find garden centres better than B&Q etc, though I suppose you might not live near any if you are in a city.My local centres are very variable and I have learnt which are the best price wise, and quality wise. A nearby Hilliers is good for compost but a litle pricey for some plants and most tools.

annie123

lobbyludd wrote: »

Hi,

I live in the middle of a city so no access to stables to get well-rotted horse manure.

I'm in London and we have 2 riding schools near me. Have a look at yell.com you may have some near you.

lobbyludd

thanks both, didn't think to check to see if there ae any stables closer than the ones I know of!

lobbyludd

beggar -there aren't, but there is a garden centre near where son is going for his birthday tomorrow, so I'll look out for something there.

juliebunny

I got my compost bin cheap via my local council - have you checked yours for offers? I know this won't help immediately, but at least you'll be organised for next year.

My sis has a horse but I've never been able to face carting the dung home in my car or storing in my small garden until it rots down! I want to start a rose bed this year though so I may to to bite the bullet!

mrbadexample

You'd be surprised at what's going spare, even in cities. I doubt you'd have to travel far to find something good. You certainly don't want to be paying for it!

If you tell us where you are, someone might know somewhere. Try asking on freecycle for a start.

Lotus-eater

Your compost bin might have collapsed, but the compost that may have been in it, will still be there.

Other than that, garden centres often sell organic manure, 3 bags for £10. That would do you I think?

poppysarah

What city?

bet someone on here can point you in the direction of some good resources.

ukbill69

I would say always best for a good go around in the car in country and find stables, they are always looking for ways to get rid of horse manure.

mondello

Do you know anyone with rabbits? My bunnies make some great organic soil improver!