This Underrated Fertilizer Might Be The Secret To A Thriving Garden

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

One of the keys to healthy plant growth, whether that's flowers, vegetables, or your lawn, is using the right kind of fertilizer. With increasing focus on the environment and being careful with how we grow our food, using as many organic nutrients as possible has become a priority. There are several household products that can be used as natural fertilizer, but while they may be effective, there is often not enough to meet the needs of the keen gardener.

The obvious solution is to look for a store-bought alternative. There is one organic fertilizer that will do wonders for your garden soil, but it can attract rodents. Instead, you could try an underrated fertilizer that might be the secret to a thriving garden. Some people call it chicken pellets, but don't confuse it with the stuff you feed them. It's actually chicken manure: Chicken poop that's been dried and pelletized.

It's understandable that some folks might wrinkle their nose at the idea, but people have been putting different types of manure on their gardens for centuries. Chicken pellets are organic, easy to use and store, and offer the devoted gardener a host of benefits.

Most of these products, like Espoma Organic Chicken Manure, which is made in the U.S., contain no additives and are safe to handle (although you'll want to wash your hands afterwards). Just add to the soil, work into the surface a little with a hand fork, and water it in. They are high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are often considered the most important nutrients for healthy plant growth. These are released slowly, so the plants get maximum benefit. Raw chicken manure can burn delicate plants, and while pellets are not as strong, it's best to avoid direct contact with seedlings. However, if beds are prepared a week in advance of planting or sowing seed, there shouldn't be a problem. Chicken manure pellets also improve the soil structure. The organic material increases aeration and improves drainage while at the same time reducing erosion.

There are a few important mistakes to avoid when using manure in your yard. You'll want to avoid using chicken manure pellets on acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons because pellets have neutral pH or are slightly alkaline, which could restrict growth. There's also the smell. It varies from product to product, but there's no doubt it can be strong. You probably won't want to sprinkle it on your houseplants or put it on your lawn just before the neighbors come 'round for a barbecue.