I picked up several bags of Earthgro Humus and Manure from Wal-Mart to incorporate into my remaining beds. I did not notice initially that the bag said nothing about the manure being composted. Is this safe to work into the soil and then direct sow my seeds into? The bag says it is at least 90% peat and other materials and 10% manure. My soil is heavy clay so I was just trying to add some beneficial organic matter to it. The reason I ask is because I am somewhat concerned about possible contamination of my veggies with pathogens (E.Coli, etc.).

Any input from you more experienced folks would be greatly appreciated.

@bi1 1me: I did use the contact link you provided for Scotts and the representative I talked to said that the manure in the Humus and Manure mix is composted.

@kimmsr: Good to know. Do those guidelines also apply to composted manure or is that just for raw? I certainly plan on washing everything well after it comes out of the garden. Haha. C:

And the 90% "other ingredients" is not necessarily organic matter. There is usually some soil (sand, silt or clay) mixed in with these products. That said, the sample of this product I tested last year was in the middle of the range on total organic matter. Nothing wrong with it.

To answer your question about whether/when it is safe to use, it's been composted for a period of time before they bagged it. Who knows how long, but I have never worried about using it in the garden and harvesting vegetables a few weeks later. I wash things well to avoid eating compost the same as I would avoid eating dirt. Works for me. :-]