Q How do I use manure on my container plants?
A CHRISTINE SAYS Any horse manure that is to be used for container-grown plants should be composted for at least 12 months to ensure that it is well rotted down and has a suitable structure. You should also be aware that if it does not compost down at a high enough temperature you may well be introducing weed seeds into the containers. When the manure is ready it should be dark in colour and very crumbly. Horse manure can be mixed into compost used for potting plants or it can be applied as an organic mulch. If using as a mulch, keep it away from the stems of plants as it can sit very wet over the winter months and cause stems to rot. Ideally, an 8-10cm top dressing on an annual basis will help suppress weeds and supply a small amount of nutrients. It should also reduce the number of weeds, providing it’s been composted properly.