Question
Dear Mr. Crowder,

It has been recommended to me to use bone meal when planting
cacti. I purchased Miracle Grow bone meal for this purpose,
however it is noted on the bag that it is for outdoor use.
Is this product appropriate for indoor plants such as cacti
and bonsai? Are there brands specific for indoor use? If so,
what are they? Note: I make my own cacti soil using equal
parts potting soil and TerraGreen (I use this for my
bonsai).

Many thanks,

Jay


Answer
Hi Jay, Steamed bone meal is the best for plant use.  Many brands are just ground up bone and it works, just very slowly. I have no problem using it on indoor plants, the down side is, if you have pets, they may be attracted to the odor and dig, or turn over, you plants.
In the past, there has been some concern that some diseases (like mad cow disease) might be passed through bone meal. So the "outdoor use only" statement minimizes your contact and the company's liability.  It's never happened and with current regulations, the possibility is virtually nil. So, like you, I use it on both indoor and outdoor plants.  Jim