Avoid applying fresh steer manure directly onto plants or vegetables that are ready for harvest. Instead, work the aged manure into the soil before planting or use it as a topdressing around existing plants. Be mindful of overapplication, as too much steer manure can lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil.

If you apply raw steer manure 6 to 12 months before planting, the risk of pathogens contaminating your vegetable garden is greatly reduced. As the manure dries, and is exposed to the elements, the bad bacteria die out. The contaminates still could affect nearby water sources.

Wait at least 120 days after applying raw or aged manure to harvest crops that grow in or near the soil (root crops, leafy greens, strawberries). Wait at least 90 days for other crops. Once the garden is planted, avoid using animal manures unless they have been pasteurized or actively composted.

Growers should either 1) use properly composted or otherwise sterilized manure (from a commercial source or your yard) for application during the current growing season, 2) apply non-composted manure in the fall before crops are planted the next spring, or 3) apply non-composted manure as soon as possible in the spring and then only plant fall-season crops in the fertilized soil.

Raw manure must be applied no less than 120 days prior to harvesting leafy crops or those that come in contact with the soil, such as lettuce, beets, carrots, and potatoes. For those that do not touch the soil, such as peppers or tomatoes, raw manure must not be spread less than 90 days before harvest.