Lemmysports

I'm seen a lot of arguments lately about using horse manure in edible gardens (or on your property at all.) Some people seem to think that the "deworming" medication is highly dangerous to humans and other animals. I've composted a couple of yards of it before, and no doubt it is a good soil amendment, but should I be concerned? What do you all think?

Thanks.

Kat2

Ask your source if they even worm; we raised very healthy ponies when I was kid and all they got were their hooves rasped as needed. A responsible owner performs a fecal or has one done before medicating; not everyone is a responsible owner and doses on schedule only.

I'd have no problem using fairly fresh animal manure as long as it doesn't burn my plants (fresh chicken stuff makes good tea but must be aged). My friend who raised pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits and chickens wormed all but the cluckers as necessary. He composted their waste and added it to his market garden; he's a stickler and researcher yet deemed it safe.

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crazy banana

Vermicides will kill intestinal worms in horses and other livestock, but once excreted, they will break down quickly. Especially when the manure is hot composted, it will not harm any earthworms or other nematodes in the garden if applied.
I have read that currently the FDA is doing some studies on livestock vermicides. However, it will probably take up to two years until they will be able to publish the results. Until then, certified organic farmers are allowed to use manure from non-organic livestock on their crops and still call their produce organic.
Anybody who has ever used any horse manure in their garden will confirm that one of the best ways to increase the amount of earth worms in the yard is to put out a load of manure.

And BTW, Kat and other poultry lovers as this is a thread in Tiki Hut: chickens DO need to be de-wormed, too. Just because someone does not see any worms does not mean that they are not existing. However, I totally agree to do a fecal egg count sample.

Richard

A more interesting question is: do plants uptake vermicides or their secondary compounds?

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bananimal

This lovely conversation is making me want to skip bacon and eggs for a while. Thanks guys - need to lose more weight anyway.

crazy banana

No reason to if the animals are properly cared for.
I could have posted pictures, but I do want you to enjoy your breakfast eggs.... 😜 🐓 👀

Lemmysports

Thanks for all the replies. I think I will continue to use this stuff, just maybe I'll wear shoes instead of flip flops, haha.

ez

Thanks

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