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MANURES: As Fertilizers
Chicken and other animal manures contain organic materials which can accumulate in the potting medium to reduce its aeration; the major nutrients are present and most of the micronutrients. P68(3)-7; they can carry diseases or be high in salinity. OA71-63Cow or chicken manures have long been applied to orchids as solutions or a "tea" but they can be too high in ammonia which has a toxic effect; it is reported to cause increased mold and fungus growth in the pots and causes faster breakdown of the medium. A87-33Growing orchids benefit from liquid, dilute manure; apply it weekly; the exact nature of the manure is not important but excess of nitrogen is undesirable; by far the best is urine diluted 1:10 with water, as it contains all the salts and certain growth-promoting substances; cattle manure is good if soaked in water and the clear liquid only used; refer to Holttum, Orchids of Malaya, vol.1, 1964, p.37The Aussies are high on them; if obtained from cows, chickens, and especially ...
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