Fall is a good time to improve flower, shrub or tree beds by adding composted manure. Michigan State University Extension advises gardeners to remove mulch out of beds. Raking the bed helps to loosen the soil which may have become compacted during the summer. Add 2 to 3 inches of composted manure to the soil surface and replace the mulch. The soil on the bottom and the mulch above keeps the composted manure damp improving the habitat for beneficial earthworms and other soil insects. By spring the earthworms will have turned the compost into the soil. Also consider adding slow-release fertilizer which will be beneficial to the plants.
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| Adding composted manure to garden beds during the fall can improve the soil for plants and soil insects including earthworms. Photo courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden |
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