Reply To: Is fertilizer safe for pets?

[E. Vinje]

Hi Jenn –

While I would keep your dogs and cats away from our concentrated or liquid plant nutrients, I feel comfortable saying that all of our organic fertilizers — we offer hundreds of them — are safe for pets, especially when diluted and applied as directed. Many of these natural plant foods are derived from a single ingredient (such as fish, seaweed, manure, bone meal, blood meal or guano), or a well-balanced blend of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus plus micronutrients. They do NOT contain toxins or heavy metals and release their nutrients slowly giving your plants long-lasting, healthy results.

I have included several different types of organic fertilizers below. All are excellent for use indoors or out and will actually improve your soil over the long run.

Bird and animal manures: Good nutrient source and chock-full of microorganisms. Should be well-aged or composted before applying directly to the garden.

Blood meal: Slow release source of nitrogen plus trace minerals. Apply just before planting and use sparingly.

Fish meal/ emulsion: Source of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and trace elements. Releases quickly.

Greensand: Rich in potassium and numerous micronutrients. Can be used to loosen clay soils. Apply 5-10 lbs per 100 square feet.

Shellfish meal: Strong source of calcium (23%), nitrogen, phosphorus and micronutrients. May also be used to inhibit root-knot nematodes.

Rock phosphate: Great for flowering plants and provides a 10 year phosphate reserve.

Whatever fertilizer you purchase, follow the application instructions including how much to apply, when and where.

I hope it helps!