Science Fair Project: Comparing Organic Fertilizers for Radish Growth

A student wants a science fair project comparing cow manure, compost, and other treatments. Key tip: use aged (cured) manure — fresh manure burns plants.

Suggested Experiment Design

Grow radishes (fast germination, harvestable roots) in 5 pots:

1. 50% sand / 50% aged manure
2. 100% sand + Miracle‑Gro (synthetic)
3. 50% sand / 50% garden soil + Miracle‑Gro
4. 50% sand / 50% compost
5. 100% sand, no fertilizer (control)

Plant 2–3 seeds per pot, photograph daily, harvest at 45 days, weigh roots. Form a hypothesis first. Use a grow light in PA in Sept/Oct for consistent light.

— The Long Island Gardener