Has anyone tried putting Black Kow on top of the soil and broadcasting seed into it? I thought it might work because the Black Kow might hold onto the water longer? Looking forward to your comments and hope I have not been too silly to suggest such a thing. ( :

Hi Carolyn and welcome to NGA!!!

Black Kow is a manure and probably too 'hot' for seeds. What kind of seeds were you wanting to broadcast?

Mix up some peat & perlite, or buy some pro-Mix and soak it in boiling hot water. Once wet and cooled, it'll stay damp, if watered regularly.

Welcome Carolyn

I agree that the black kow might be a little "hot" for seed starting. I usually use something a little lighter. Perhaps even try a mix of potting soil and peat. Some of it may depend upon what types of seeds you are starting. If you'd like to let us know, perhaps we can help more.

I have a variety of wildflower seeds and a large area. I have never mixed my own seed starting soil, so that is why I am looking for an economical efficient way of providing something. I was thinking of the buffalo pooping in the prairies and that poop aging...along with the seeds, and thought this might work. ( :

I tried this with Zinna (a couple of weeks ago) and there are lots coming up. Thank you for your ideas. Sadly I did not mark the spot so I would get notified of your responses, but I will check back daily. I am thrilled to have found your page!

Wildflowers do not usually require rich manured soil.

I agree with Caroline....something pretty basic and not really hot or heavy will probably work well for you. Look forward to hearing about your wildflower project!! Please keep checking in with us, Carolyn.