It’s a common misconception that all flowers, vegetables and garden plants LOVE manure, but that simply isn’t the case. Not only can manure ‘burn’ plants, but it can also cause harm to humans if said plants are consumed.
In this guide, we outline the type of vegetables and flowers that do not like manure and what actually causes the inflictive damage to the plants.
Contents
What is manure?
Manure is organic matter that is used as a fertilizer in gardening and agriculture, with the majority of manure consisting of animal faeces and bedding straw. Most manure can be used on certain vegetables and flowers, but not all of them. The most common types of organic manure are:
- Animal manure
- Compost manure
- Green manure
Manure is available in a range of varieties, but they are typically grouped into three main types. Each type has its own benefits, but the main objective is to provide extra nutrients to the soil. To learn more about the different kinds of manure, head over to our extensive manure guide.
Manure/fertiliser burn
Using too much manure can damage any plant (even ones that thrive off it) – this is called manure/fertiliser burn. Simply put, manure burn is an issue that results in the burning or scorching of a plant (flower and vegetable) foliage. Manure burn is the result of over-fertilising plants or applying fertiliser to wet or damp plants.
What should you not use manure on?
Animal manure generally speaking is beneficial for growing healthy plants. In fact, it is considered to be one of the best organic fertilisers that you can use in the UK. Manure can be added to your topsoil to give your plants the nutrients needed to grow, however not all plants will benefit from that added layer of manure.
Unsure when to apply manure in your garden? Check out our definitive manure application guide for further reading.
What vegetables don’t like manure?
Whilst some vegetables thrive off the extra nutrients and minerals, some don’t bode well to it. Manure burn can cause infant roots to die off before having the chance to sprout into their final form – both root and surface vegetables.
Root vegetables that do not like manure:
- Beetroot
- Potato
- Carrot
- Parsnip
- Radish
Surface-level vegetables that do not like manure:
- Leafy greens (lettuce)
- Marrows (cucumber)
- Herbs
- Fruits (tomatoes and peppers)
Vegans looking to eat vegetables that have been grown in manure should be aware of the risks that come with eating these foods.
What flowers don’t like manure?
Flowers are less susceptible to harm from manure than vegetables as the roots tend to be stronger once established. Mixing manure into the soil will help encourage root growth and health because the manure is packed full of nutrients. The main nutrient released is nitrogen which is needed for plants to grow in a sustainable manner. Manure also contributes to an improved soil structure, resulting in better infiltration and retention of water.
Simply put, the majority of flowers DO like manure – especially roses!
Where can I buy manure?
Based in Hambledon, Hampshire, we can supply organic, well-rotted horse manure for all those who are local to the Portsmouth area and further surrounding towns and cities. Alsoils+ have been servicing domestic and trade customers for over 35 years with the highest quality horse manure, leaving you safe in the knowledge that we can cater for your needs.
Our well-rotted horse FYM is both high-quality and affordable for all purposes. With its highly versatile and low maintenance nature, they are the ideal solution for a variety of gardening and landscaping needs.
