Guano is organic, it is produced sustainably and without harmful interference with nature. That makes him a suitable one fertilizerfor the hobby gardener and commercial cultivation. The valuable bird droppings are available in various forms of trade, pure or combined with mineral fertilizers.

From bird droppings to garden fertilizers

It is difficult to say exactly when the growth-promoting effect of sea-bird excrement was first recognized. Traditions indicate the 12th century. Other attributions date much earlier, even the 4th century is adopted. This can not be excluded. The word guano for manure, dung comes from the Quechua, a language group that is widespread in the South American Andes and dates back to the Inca period. The Spanish language has adapted this name and so it came to us. Already in the 19th century the natural fertilizer became an important commodity in Europe.

In addition to Bolivia, Chile and Peru, West Africa and the Pacific Islands are now main suppliers. The remnants of cormorants and penguins, as well as of bats, produce a dry mixture by reacting to the rocky surface over time. The fertilizing effect is caused by various phosphates, by apatites and nitrates.

Fertilizing in the cycle of nature

The flocks of birds form meter-high layers of guano on the limestone rocks. Under difficult conditions, this mass is still degraded by hand. Guano smells intense to pungent, depending on which animals the feces is obtained. In addition to seabirds and bats, seals are also considered as suppliers.

In the trade one knows Guano as liquid fertilizer, as a powder or granules or pressed as fertilizer sticks. The nutrients contained in the fertilizer slowly release themselves and ensure a long-lasting effect. Solid products with guano are incorporated into the soil, followed by extensive watering. Liquid gifts are poured according to the package instructions diluted on the still moist earth, Guano should not be applied more often and not more concentrated than indicated. Not much helps here, but could damage the roots of sensitive plants.

What can guano do?

The ingredients in guano are given as in any other fertilizer in NPK = nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Depending on the variety, a nitrogen-stressed or phosphate-stressed fertilizer is obtained. The potassium value is always low. Nitrogen is important for building the plant. Without it, neither new plant shoots nor flowers, and therefore no fruit. Phosphor ensures functioning cells. It is important for the metabolic processes in the plants and ensures a healthy growth of the roots. It promotes the approach of flowers and fruits and allows fruit ripening. Without a sufficient supply of potassium, a plant can not transport water. Potassium is therefore important for the absorption of water, which affects especially in fruiting plants.

As an organic fertilizer, Guano does a lot more. Taken from nature, it is part of a natural cycle. It can improve the drainage of the soil and stimulate living organisms to grow there. Due to its sulfur content, it prevents harmful fungi in the soil. Furthermore, guano is able to support decomposition processes, easy administration per 10 cm of compost material supports the ripening of the compost.

Guano – universal and special

In addition to pure guano products, there are products in the specialized trade, which are combined according to the respective purpose. For all plants the universal fertilizer is suitable. Algae lime or rock flour provide the mineral content. Furthermore, special fertilizers for raceand roses, for tomatoes, for conifers and for berries in the market. Here, the natural ingredients are supplemented by additives such as magnesium and other minerals.

Our tip: Store guano in tightly closed containers. This preserves the throwing power and protects against unpleasant odors.