Bone Meal
A powder called "bone meal" is created by finely crushing animal bones. It serves as both a fertilizer for plants and an animal food supplement. High concentrations of calcium and phosphorus, two nutrients crucial for plant growth, can be found in bone meal. These nutrients can also be added to deficient soil using this method.
How is bone meal made?
Typically, bones from cattle that have been roasted to remove any fat or meat are used to make bone meal. The bones are then reduced to a powdery consistency. Other animal bones, including those from pigs, chickens, and fish, can also be used to make bone meal.
What are the benefits of using bone meal?
Phosphorus and calcium, two nutrients crucial for plant growth, are abundant in bone meal. In the process of photosynthesis, phosphorus aids plants in converting sunlight into energy. Strong roots and stems develop with the help of calcium. Additionally, bone meal can aid in increasing the soil's aeration and drainage.
How do I use bone meal?
Before planting a garden, bone meal can be mixed into the soil or added to compost. Additionally, it can be applied to established plants as a top dressing. Because too much phosphorus can harm plants, it's crucial to follow the instructions on the package when using bone meal as fertilizer.
Purchasing bone meal
The majority of garden centers and nurseries sell bone meal. Online access is also possible. Make sure to select an organically-certified product when buying bone meal. This will guarantee that it hasn't been given a chemical or artificial additive treatment.
Storing bone meal
Bone meal needs to be kept in a cool, dry location. For up to two years, it can be stored in an airtight container.
Dosage and safety
It's crucial to adhere to the instructions on the packaging when using bone meal as fertilizer. Apply no more phosphorus than is advised because too much can harm plants. Using bone meal around kids and animals is safe. It shouldn't be consumed though because doing so could be dangerous. Wash it off right away if you come in contact with bone meal on your skin.
Long-term effects of bone meal
The use of bone meal as fertilizer has no known long-term effects. However, it's crucial to adhere to the instructions on the package and avoid applying more phosphorus than is advised because doing so can harm plants.
Pharmacokinetics
When consumed, bone meal is not absorbed by the body. It is eliminated in the feces after passing through the digestive tract.
Mechanism of action
The phosphorus and calcium in bone meal are released and made available for plant growth when it is added to soil. In the process of photosynthesis, phosphorus aids plants in converting sunlight into energy. Strong roots and stems develop with the help of calcium.
Additionally, bone meal can aid in increasing the soil's aeration and drainage.
Using too much bone meal
The phosphorus in bone meal can become toxic to plants if it is applied to soil in excess amounts. Yellow leaves, stunted growth, and fewer flowers can all result from this. It can even kill plants in extreme circumstances. As a result, it's crucial to adhere to the instructions on the packaging and avoid using more product than is advised.
What are some other ways to add phosphorus and calcium to my garden?
You can add calcium and phosphorus to your garden in a variety of ways. Use organic material such as manure, compost, or other. You can also buy goods containing these nutrients, like fertilizer or lime.