Question
Hi Rick,

I leave in Oacklieght, Melbourne. I'd like to plant lemon, avocado and apricot trees. I bought a bag of chicken manure at the Banner Warehouse yesterday and salesmen told "to dig a wide hole and empty bag of manure in it. Let it stay for a week and plant a tree in it." So I did.
I afraid that chicken manure can burn tree roots, should I mix it with soil? I didn't buy any tree yet. Is it a good time now or better to wait for the spring?
Thanks in advance
Elena


Answer
the chicken manure should have been composted for 6 months to a year or it will burn the plant. buy fertilizers that have been composted (cow manure, etc.). it will say that on the bag. always mix them & incorporate them into the soil before planting. they can very easily burn plants if not composted for 6-12 months. planting is best in the fall as you are entering a dormant period. i'm in New Jersey, USA. are you in australia? my e-mail is [email protected]