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Using Steer Manure in Fruit Tree Containers: Proceed with Caution

Question: Can I mix 1 cubic foot of bagged steer manure with 1 cubic foot of all-purpose soil for repotting fruit trees?

Limit Manure to 20%

A little manure is fine, but don't exceed 20%. Bagged manure has low nutritional value (<0.5 lb fertilizer per 100 lbs). Containers need quick drainage; manure may hold moisture too long. Use a coarser soil mix and fertilize regularly—manure isn't much food.

Soil Issues: Sheep Manure for Apple Trees: Low Nitrogen, High P/K, Ideal Rate ~90 lbs/Tree/Year; Plum Tree with Jelly-Like Sap: Borer Infestation; Diagnosing Yellowing Citrus in Arizona: Fertilizer, Drainage, and pH; Identifying Cedar Trees with Orange Seed Pods; Why Apple Trees Fail to Fruit: Nitrogen, Weeds, Frost, and Pollinators; Growing Tropical Fruit Trees from Seed in Canada – Challenges; Choosing Self-Pollinating Fruit Trees for Montreal Gardens; Steer Manure for Potted Fruit Trees: 50/50 Mix Works; Using Steer Manure on Potted Fruit Trees: Proceed with Caution; Steer Manure in Container Fruit Trees? Bad Idea—Use Potting Mix Instead

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