How to Make Manure Tea

Manure tea works like a power shake for plants, helping them grow stronger and more productive and, evidence suggests, holding diseases at bay. It's a snap to make. And not to worry: if you use well-cured manure there's no unpleasant odor.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mild Dish Soap
• Spray Bottles
• 2 Metal Buckets
• Cheesecloth
• Fertilizers
• Garden Trowels
• Shovels
• Vegetable Oils
• Shovels

1. Fill a metal bucket one-third full of well-cured manure (you can buy it in bags at any nursery).

2. Add water to fill the bucket to the top.

3. Let it steep for three to four days.

4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or other porous fabric into another container. Add any remaining solids to the garden or toss them into the compost bin.

5. Dilute the remaining liquid with water so it's the color of weak tea.

6. Apply manure tea according to each plant's requirements (check seed packets and gardening books for details). For best results, work early in the morning or on cloudy days.

Tips & Warnings

• Some plants respond well to foliar feeding (having their foliage sprayed). Before you spray manure tea, add 1/8 tsp. vegetable oil or mild dish-washing liquid per gallon to help it adhere to leaves.