Manure can vary tremendously in its nutrient value, depending on what kind of animal it came from, what the animals were fed and how long and where it was stored. Manure may also bring weed seeds to the garden. Fresh manure can cause chemical burns to plants, so manure should be aged for several weeks before applying to the garden during the gardening season.

Manure mixed with bedding such as wood shavings is good organic matter for the soil and contains some nutrients. But as the bedding decomposes, it may actually rob nitrogen from the plants. Use this material in the fall or very early spring and not when plants are actively growing.

Avoid adding manure to gardens in the last few weeks before harvesting crops to prevent food-borne illnesses. Never add human or dog and cat manure to the garden as it may be a source of parasites and diseases. Organic fertilizers can pollute water just as easily as conventional fertilizers, so keep them off paved surfaces and avoiding applying too much.

Bone, fish and blood meal may actually attract some pests to the garden, such as raccoons. There may be a smell associated with using organic fertilizers. If neighbors are close, the use of manure may have to be confined to seasons when windows are closed.

Organic Pest and Disease Management

Organic vegetable gardening practices lean heavily on prevention rather than curing problems. Plant varieties of vegetables that are disease-resistant. Space your plants so that there is good airflow around them. Keep crops like tomatoes and cucumbers off the ground with trellises or cages, and mulch around your plants to conserve moisture and keep down weeds.

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