Before you use that a free load of manure, compost, or hay in your garden, do a little testing to make sure the great deal on free or cheap material you just scored won’t ruin your garden for the whole season or longer!
The idea is to set up a science experiment of sorts and use the material on some test plants to see how they react. Beans work well because they are sensitive to most herbicides that you might run into. So get 20 or so small cups, poke a drain hole or two in the bottom, then fill them all with some sterile potting mix. Next, plant a bean in each one and water. When they start growing, divide them into two groups: 1) the test group and 2) the control group. (Just label the cups so you know which is which)
Prepare a special batch of water made with whatever material you want to test. If you want to test hay or mulch, fill a bucket with the material, then fill with water. If you want to test manure or compost, fill a bucket about half way with the material and then fill with water , stir well. Next, let the mixture sit for 8 hours or more, then pour off enough water for your 10 cups in the test group. Water the 10 bean plants with the test water. Water the 10 bean plants in the control group with clean water. Wait a few days. If both groups are still alive, you know it is probably safe to use the material in your garden. If your beans die, feel free to curse the giver of your free goodies and leave them a bad review online! :)
