this in my compost pile? It's a large bag so I'm open to other garden idea for its use. Thank you.
You can put some in there, but don't let it exceed 10% of the pile. It does contain some nutrients that can be useful. It shouldn't be used to control insects in the pile, as proper heating and turning of the pile does that. But if you are just trying to find a use for it... Sure, you can throw anywhere from 2 to 10 percent into the pile, safely.
Other than that, there are some other things that you can use it for:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth.htm
Hi there and thank you for answering my question as best you can ? I am about to have a wire garden fence with treated post put around the perimeter of my garden. I also want to build a three-bin compost area out of wooden pallets within the gardens perimeter which is about a thousand square feet (25x40 square). we are in a mountain area so there are some black bears that occasionally come down. With the fence that will probably be five feet high do you think it will be bear proof with a good strong Garden gate made of cedar? I guess my question is can a black bear take down a fence like that? the three bins are for various stages of the compost process. Thank you!
If you have lived in bear habitat, you know that they are powerful and determined when there is an attractive food source available. If you manage your compost well, and don't use animal matter, it will be less attractive to bears. They also are attracted to kitchen scraps within the pile. If you bury them close to the center of the pile where it is hotter, they might not scavange.
When it comes to bears, it is usually advised to get a closed bin system with ventillation or use an electric fence.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/bear-control.htm
I spread well rotted, well diluted horse manure throughout my veggie garden. Is this acceptable?
Yes, acceptable in moderation, but not to be considered a complete fertility treatment. Soil testing and prescription mineral and biological amendments, based on actual deficiencies found, is the best way to fertilize.
Next best is a complete organic fertilizer. Here is more:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/fertilizer-options-for-your-vegetable-garden.htm
If you mean to ask if you can compost the grass- Absolutely! This may take a month, or it may take a few months, depending on temperature of your compost bin and microbial count.
Make sure to compost using a broad range of ingredients, and use proper ratios of green to brown material.
Here are some articles that will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/ultimate-beginners-guide-composting.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/category/composting/ingredients
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/lasagna-sod-composting.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/lawn-care/lgen/what-to-do-with-removed-sod.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/ingredients/grass-clipping-composting.htm
I have a 200 square foot vegetable garden and want to try chix manure. My friend has a pile of chicken bedding (manure and sawdust) which has been piling up for a few years. Im wondering if it's still good to use and about how much I should till into my garden. I live in Mass. and the garden is well established. Thanks Al
Here's an article that should help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/manures/chicken-manure-fertilizer.htm
I would like to add manure and shavings from the coop my chicks are in, but there is a good bit of chicken food mixed in. Will the food be a problem?
As long as your compost reaches the correct composting temperature, then it will be fine.
This article will offer more insight into composting:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/ultimate-beginners-guide-composting.htm
much rain. If we dig a hole for the composting will it just fill up with rain water and not work?
That depends on your soil type! If your yard normally pools up with water, then this may not be a good method. If your soil is well draining, then it won't really matter how much rain falls. It will drain right off.
Here are some articles that will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/digging-holes-for-food-scraps.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/basics/trench-composting.htm