[Yana]

I managed to get a deal on B and Q manure as they sell a different brand now. Ive put it on the bed that I am going to use for runner beans (I will be planting the runners out in the nevet day or so (had hoped to do it today but ran out of time). My question is this ...... Will the runners be Ok or should I have dug the manure in instead  of simply raking in?

[Plot74]

I put mine in a trench and let the roots find it , hungry plants
John

[goodtogrow]

Dear Yana,

I wish to submit the following observations for your consideration:

1.  Assuming that the product is fully broken down, i.e. it is an homogenous consistency and the original elements are not discernable to the naked eye, then it will act as a slow-release fertiliser for the rest of the growing season.  This is a good thing, IMO.

2.  If you mulch the soil into which the product is raked, with say, grass cuttings, to a depth of 50mm or more, you will conserve the moisture held in the manure and soil.  This same moisture, along with air and the very lovely soil bacteria, will break the product down faster, thus ensuring a timely supply of plant food to your flourishing runner beans, IMO.

Yours sincerely

Tom

[Yana]

Thanks Tom for the detail in your reply. I'm hoping to plant the first batch of runner beans out tomorrow and will use grass cuttings as you suggest.