Cottonseed Meal (50 lb)

Slow Release N-P-K Feed grade cottonseed meal low in residues. Typical analysis is 5-2-1, and somewhat acidic so it can be used on plants that thrive in lower pH soil such as azaleas, rhododendrons, potatoes, blueberries, strawberries and roses.

For years, organic growers have used cottonseed meal as an all-around source of slow-release nutrients for all crops, especially acid-tolerant plants.

• Reputed to be a good choice for roses, azaleas, rhododendrons, and blueberries.
• Use at 10 lb/100 sq ft or 1500-3000 lb/acre.
• This is a commodity product. Please check for current price when ordering pallet quantity.

Gardening success begins with healthy soil, and one key to achieving that is by incorporating the right soil amendments. Cottonseed meal is a versatile and nutrient-rich soil amendment that has become a favorite among gardeners.

Understanding Cottonseed Meal: 

Cottonseed meal is a byproduct of the cotton industry, created from the remnants of cottonseed after the extraction of cottonseed oil. This natural and organic soil amendment is renowned for its nutrient content, making it a valuable choice for enhancing soil quality and promoting plant growth.

Key Qualities of Cottonseed Meal:

• Nutrient-Rich: Cottonseed meal is packed with essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K), which are vital for plant growth and development. These nutrients are released slowly, providing a consistent source of nourishment to plants.

• Organic Matter: Cottonseed meal is rich in organic matter, which improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and encourages beneficial microbial activity in the soil.

• Acidic pH: It has a slightly acidic pH, making it an excellent choice for acid-loving plants like azaleas, camellias, and blueberries. It can also help lower the pH of alkaline soils.

• Weed Suppressant: Cottonseed meal can inhibit weed growth when used as a mulch or soil amendment by depriving weed seeds of light and nutrients.

Benefits of Using Cottonseed Meal:

Incorporating cottonseed meal into your gardening practices offers several notable benefits:

1. Soil Enrichment: Cottonseed meal enriches the soil by providing essential nutrients and organic matter that promote healthy plant growth. It enhances soil fertility and overall soil health.

2. Slow-Release Nutrients: The slow-release nature of cottonseed meal ensures that plants receive a consistent and gradual supply of nutrients over an extended period. This reduces the risk of nutrient leaching and provides lasting nourishment.

3. pH Adjustment: If you have alkaline soil, cottonseed meal can help lower the pH, making it more suitable for acid-loving plants and improving nutrient availability.

4. Weed Control: When used as a mulch or soil amendment, cottonseed meal can act as a natural weed suppressant, reducing competition for resources.

5. Beneficial Microbes: The organic matter in cottonseed meal encourages the growth of beneficial soil microbes that contribute to nutrient cycling and overall soil health.

Practical Applications of Cottonseed Meal:

Cottonseed meal is a versatile soil amendment suitable for various gardening applications:

• Vegetable Gardens: Incorporate cottonseed meal into your vegetable garden soil to provide essential nutrients to crops like tomatoes, peppers, and beans.

• Flower Beds: Use cottonseed meal as a soil conditioner for flower beds and ornamental gardens to promote vibrant blooms and healthy plant growth.

• Acid-Loving Plants: Apply cottonseed meal around acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and blueberries to improve soil pH and nutrient availability.

• Mulch: Use cottonseed meal as a weed-suppressing mulch in garden beds and around the base of trees and shrubs.

• Compost Pile: Add cottonseed meal to your compost pile to enhance nutrient content and microbial activity, resulting in nutrient-rich compost.

Cottonseed meal is a nutrient-rich soil amendment that offers numerous advantages for gardeners seeking to improve soil quality and promote healthy plant growth. Its slow-release nutrients, organic matter, and weed-suppressing qualities make it a valuable addition to gardens, flower beds, and compost piles. By incorporating cottonseed meal into your gardening practices, you can enrich your soil, support robust plant growth, and enjoy the rewards of a thriving garden.

Note: While we are continuing to look for a source of organic cottonseed meal, we have been unable to locate any so far. Consequently, the cottonseed meal we now carry is from "conventional" sources and there is unfortunately no guarantee that it is free from any GMO cottonseed.