Feather Meal Fertilizer 12-0-0
- Regular Price
- $ 24.99
- Sale Price
- $ 24.99
- Regular Price
- $ 22.99
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- per
Organic Feather Meal 12-0-0 Fertilizer
Premium slow-release organic nitrogen from hydrolyzed poultry feathers. Feeds plants steadily for 3–4 months with very low burn risk.
Ideal Applications
FEATURES
🌱 12% Slow-Release Nitrogen
One of the highest organic nitrogen concentrations available, released gradually over 3–4 months by soil microbes for sustained vegetative growth.
⏰ 3–4 Month Feeding Cycle
Among the longest-lasting organic nitrogen sources — lasts roughly 3 times longer than blood meal, reducing reapplication frequency.
🛡️ Very Low Burn Risk
The ultra slow-release nature of hydrolyzed keratin means feather meal is exceptionally gentle even at higher application rates.
🧪 CDFA Registered
Meets California Department of Food and Agriculture standards for fertilizer materials. Tested for heavy metals by independent laboratories.
🌿 Repackaged from Organic Sources
Premium hydrolyzed poultry feathers sourced from organic operations and repackaged in our California facility.
🦠 Feeds Beneficial Soil Microbes
As soil microorganisms break down the keratin protein, they multiply and improve overall soil biology and nutrient cycling.
🌽 Ideal for Heavy Feeders
Perfect for nitrogen-hungry crops like corn, leafy greens, brassicas, and long-season vegetables that need sustained feeding.
♻️ Excellent Compost Activator
High nitrogen content accelerates composting by providing the nitrogen that microbes need to break down carbon-rich materials.
🌍 Sustainable & Eco-Friendly
Recycles poultry industry byproducts that would otherwise go to landfill, turning waste into a valuable soil amendment.
🏡 Versatile Application
Works for vegetable gardens, lawns, flower beds, trees, shrubs, and compost piles — one product for multiple uses.
DERIVED FROM
Our feather meal is sourced from organic poultry operations and processed through controlled hydrolysis to break down keratin proteins into a form that soil microorganisms can readily utilize.
Nitrogen Source
SCIENCE BEHIND THE FORMULA
12-0-0: Pure Slow-Release Nitrogen
Feather meal delivers nitrogen in its slowest organic form — water-insoluble keratin protein. Soil microbes must physically break down the protein structure to release plant-available nitrogen, creating a natural time-release mechanism. Best performance when soil temperatures are above 50°F and kept evenly moist.
🌿 Nitrogen — 12% (The Growth Engine)
All 12% is water-insoluble nitrogen, meaning it cannot wash away with rain or irrigation. Soil microorganisms gradually convert the keratin into ammonium and then nitrate — the forms plants actually absorb.
🌸 Phosphorus — 0%
Feather meal naturally contains no significant phosphorus. For root development and flowering, pair with Bone Meal 3-15-0 to complete your nutrient program.
⭐ Potassium — 0%
Feather meal naturally contains no significant potassium. For stress resistance and fruit quality, pair with Potassium Sulfate 0-0-53.
Why Feather Meal Outperforms Other Nitrogen Sources
🔬 Keratin Slow-Release Mechanism
Unlike blood meal or synthetic nitrogen that dissolves quickly, keratin protein requires microbial enzymatic activity to break down — creating the longest natural release curve of any organic nitrogen source.
🌱 Builds Soil Biology
The microbial activity required to process feather meal increases beneficial soil organism populations, improving long-term soil health beyond just the nitrogen contribution.
🍅 Season-Long Feeding
Many gardeners notice sustained green growth through an entire growing season from a single application, especially on heavy-feeding crops like corn and tomatoes.
What to Expect After Application
Results vary with soil temperature, moisture, and microbial activity. Best performance when soil temps are above 50°F.
APPLICATION RATES & DIRECTIONS
Feather meal provides long-lasting nutrition when properly applied. Work into soil before planting or side-dress established plants. Allow 2–4 weeks before planting for initial microbial breakdown.
Vegetable Gardens
| Crop Type | Rate per 1,000 sq ft | Per Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Leafy Greens (lettuce, spinach, kale) | 15–20 lbs | ⅓ cup |
| Tomatoes & Peppers | 12–15 lbs | ⅓ cup |
| Root Vegetables (carrots, beets) | 10–12 lbs | ¼ cup |
| Corn (heavy feeder) | 20–25 lbs | ½ cup |
Lawn Applications
| Application Level | Rate per 1,000 sq ft | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Light (maintenance) | 7 lbs | Established, healthy lawns |
| Normal (standard) | 12 lbs | Standard seasonal application |
| Heavy (recovery) | 20 lbs | New lawns or recovery from damage |
Composting
| Compost Volume | Feather Meal Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Per cubic yard | 2–3 lbs | Nitrogen source for decomposition |
| 5-gallon bucket | ½ cup | Home composting |
HOW TO USE
Soil & Garden Beds
- Calculate the amount needed based on crop type and area (see Application Rates above).
- Spread feather meal evenly over the soil surface.
- Work into the top 3–4 inches of soil using a garden fork or tiller.
- Water thoroughly to activate microbial breakdown.
- Allow 2–4 weeks before planting for initial nitrogen release.
- Reapply every 3–4 months during the growing season as needed.
Container & Potted Plants
- Mix ¼–½ cup per plant into the top 2 inches of potting soil.
- Water thoroughly after application.
- Reapply every 3–4 months during the growing season.
Compost Piles
- Add 2–3 lbs of feather meal per cubic yard of carbon-rich material (leaves, straw, wood chips).
- Mix thoroughly into the compost pile.
- Maintain moisture and turn regularly to distribute nitrogen evenly.
Pro Tip: Pre-Plant Soil Preparation
For best results with spring gardens, apply feather meal 2–4 weeks before your last frost date and work it into the soil. By the time soil temperatures reach 50°F and you're ready to transplant, the initial microbial breakdown will be underway and nitrogen will be available right when your seedlings need it most.
When Feather Meal Is the Right Choice
- You need sustained nitrogen feeding over an entire growing season
- You want an organic nitrogen source with very low burn risk
- You're growing heavy-feeding crops like corn, brassicas, or leafy greens
- You need to add nitrogen to a compost pile to balance carbon-rich materials
- You prefer fewer applications (every 3–4 months instead of monthly)
When to Consider Other Options
- You need fast-acting nitrogen within days — consider Blood Meal 13-0-0 for quicker results
- You need a complete N-P-K fertilizer — feather meal provides nitrogen only; combine with phosphorus and potassium sources or use a blended fertilizer like Rose & Flower 4-7-5
- Soil temperatures are consistently below 50°F — microbial breakdown will be very slow; wait for warmer conditions
FEATHER MEAL CALCULATOR
SAFETY & HANDLING
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Wear gloves when handling
- Safety glasses or goggles recommended to prevent dust contact with eyes
- Use a dust mask in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling
Storage Guidelines
- Store in a cool, dry place in the original sealed container
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Feather meal can absorb moisture — reseal bags tightly after each use
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
Application Precautions
- Always work feather meal into the soil — do not leave on the surface
- Water in well after application to activate microbial breakdown
- Allow 2–4 weeks before planting for initial decomposition
- Most effective when soil temperatures exceed 50°F
- Avoid applying in windy conditions to prevent dust inhalation
- Do not apply directly to plant foliage
First Aid
- Eye contact: Flush with clean water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Skin contact: Wash affected area with soap and water
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or seek medical attention
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete safety information.
COMPLETE YOUR SYSTEM
Feather meal provides only nitrogen. Build a complete organic nutrition program by adding phosphorus, potassium, and other amendments based on soil test results.
Add Phosphorus
Bone Meal 3-15-0 for root development, flowering, and fruit set.
SYNTHETICAdd Potassium
Potassium Sulfate 0-0-53 for stress resistance, fruit quality, and disease tolerance.
ORGANICFast Nitrogen Boost
Blood Meal 13-0-0 for quick-acting nitrogen when plants need immediate feeding.
ORGANICAdd Calcium & Chitin
Crustacean Meal 4-0-0 with 12% calcium plus chitin for soil health.
ORGANICAdd Micronutrients
Kelp Meal 2-0-4 for trace minerals, growth hormones, and potassium.
MINERALTrace Minerals
Azomite for a broad spectrum of 70+ trace minerals from volcanic ash.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does feather meal take to break down?
Feather meal begins releasing nitrogen within 2–4 weeks of application and continues feeding plants for 3–4 months. The breakdown rate depends on soil temperature, moisture, and microbial activity. Warmer, moist soils with healthy microbial populations will process feather meal faster than cold or dry soils. For more on how nitrogen works in your garden, see our article on What's the Function of Nitrogen in Plants?.
Why choose feather meal over other nitrogen sources?
Feather meal is one of the slowest-release organic nitrogen sources available (3–4 months vs. 6–8 weeks for blood meal), has very low burn risk even at higher rates, and provides the most consistent feeding throughout the season. It's ideal for long-season crops like corn, tomatoes, and brassicas. For a full comparison of nitrogen fertilizers, see What is the Best Nitrogen Fertilizer?.
Can I use feather meal with other fertilizers?
Yes. Feather meal provides primarily nitrogen, so it pairs well with phosphorus sources like Bone Meal 3-15-0 and potassium sources like Potassium Sulfate or Kelp Meal. For a complete organic program, combine amendments based on soil test results. Account for all nitrogen sources to avoid over-application. Learn more about building a complete soil program in The 5 Fertilizers That Will Also Encourage Soil Health.
When should I apply feather meal?
Apply feather meal in early spring when soil temperatures reach 50°F or higher. For best results, work it into the soil 2–4 weeks before planting to allow initial microbial breakdown. Reapply every 3–4 months during the growing season. For lawns, apply in early spring, summer, and fall.
Can I add feather meal to my compost pile?
Feather meal is an excellent compost activator. Its high nitrogen content helps balance carbon-rich brown materials like leaves and straw, speeding up decomposition. Add 2–3 lbs per cubic yard of compost material and mix thoroughly. For more composting guidance, see our article on Should You Add Fertilizer to Your Compost Pile?.
Will feather meal change my soil pH?
Feather meal has minimal effect on soil pH. As it decomposes, the microbial activity may produce a very slight acidifying effect, but this is generally negligible for most garden soils. It is safe to use without worrying about significant pH shifts.
Does feather meal smell?
Feather meal has a mild organic, earthy odor — much less pungent than blood meal or fish-based fertilizers. Once worked into the soil and watered in, the smell dissipates within a day or two.
Can feather meal mold on the soil surface?
If left on the soil surface in moist conditions, you may see white or gray mold growth. This is harmless microbial activity — actually a sign that the beneficial decomposition process is underway. For best results, always work feather meal into the soil and water in well.
Is feather meal safe around pets?
Feather meal is generally safe when applied as directed and worked into the soil. However, keep bags stored away from animals, as pets may be attracted to the scent. While non-toxic, ingestion of large amounts could cause digestive upset.
Will feather meal attract animals?
Feather meal has less odor than blood meal but may still attract some animals like raccoons or dogs. Always mix it thoroughly into the soil and water in well. Store bags in sealed containers. The smell dissipates quickly once incorporated.
GROW WITH CONFIDENCE
Product Quality Guaranteed
- Repackaged in our California facility from premium organic hydrolyzed poultry feathers
- Tested by independent third-party laboratories for purity and nutrient content
- Registered with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA)
- Tested for heavy metals to ensure safety for edible crops
Hassle-Free Return Policy
90-day money-back guarantee. Return unused portion in original packaging for a full refund.
Environmental Responsibility
- Sustainable recycling of poultry industry byproducts that would otherwise be wasted
- Slow-release formulation reduces nitrogen runoff compared to fast-acting fertilizers
- Supports organic and eco-friendly farming methods
Charitable Contributions
1% of all profits go to our foundation, focused on improving educational opportunities for children.
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