Last spring to build the bottom of the food chain the subterraneous network that provides nutrients to feed the fungus and microbes so they can provide nutrition for the plants spring growth I used a time release organic fertilizer Microlife. It is a great product. That said it is a processed product. In my family's diet we prioritize whole foods and recognize the significant health benefits over processed foods. Would it be the same for plants?
In an effort to gain some insight, yesterday I took a bold move and sourced horse stable manure for Symbiosis. Plus it is free.
The manure is free for the taking at this north Houston feed store and stable.
I dug in up close where the manure still had moisture and living microbes.
Bring your own shovel
An open bed truck would gave made for a more pleasant drive to Lawndale. I kept the windows open.
I installed this organic material according to patterns observed in free-range bison pastures - insertions made at regular intervals while pressing down each pile firmly. I used the heel of my boots to create a divet for catching rainwater. I have read the butterflies will benefit from the minerals in the dung. I think the soil, water, plant, and microbial relationships will as well.
Dung installed with heel divet for catching water.
What will be the response to this method? How will plants and microorganisms fare under these conditions compared to time-release product pellets that can too easily wash away into bayous? And are too easily available to all with the sprinkled style of even distribution. Fingers crossed—I'm anxious to find out what's ahead!
I have watched the installation and have not seen any evidence of life. It occurs to me that the horses that live in these stable might not be living their best life. They are not grazing in open pastures. I am guessing they spend most of their days in a dark stall. I believe the manure I installed was full of antibiotics.
This is a sad realization. Further research in this area has inspired a new piece. Earth Moves. More on that later.