This may sound a little strange, but Bat Guano is a sought-after remedy for better performing cannabis plants. But how does this organic fertilizer work? And when should you use Bat Guano? We answer these questions and more below!
What is Bat Guano?
Bat Guano (bat manure) is essentially made up of excrement. Because bats live in large colonies in the same caves for generations, the floors of those caves become completely covered in excrement over the years. This is then collected to make compost. The South American indigenous people Quechan also call it “wano,” and it is a nutritious form of superfood that can also be used as fertilizer for cannabis plants. In addition to bats, several seabirds also produce guano. Bat guano (Royal Queen Seeds) View
Bat Guano has a rich history
The use of Bat Guano is nothing new; we know that its use dates back more than 1,500 years. Guano has even been responsible for conflicts between countries because of its value. In addition to being used as a plant food, it was also an essential ingredient to produce gunpowder and explosives. Before the arrival of Europeans, guano was used as a fertilizer by the Incas and other South American cultures. In doing so, the Inca rulers divided the islands where guano occurred among the leaders of different provinces. This way they could determine how much could be collected. These provinces were then strictly controlled and regulated. Although guano is ultimately just animal waste, its value cannot be underestimated. It has really made and lost an awful lot of money since its uses were discovered. As one of the world’s largest guano countries, Peru exported over twenty million tons over a forty-year period, earning about two billion dollars!
Why is Bat Guano good for cannabis plants?
Because Bat Guano is teeming with nutrients, it can support cannabis plants during both the vegetative and flowering phases. And because it is an organic fertilizer, it should (if applied correctly) only strengthen the substrate. In the process, it helps to maintain microbial life. It also promotes soil texture and aids in the healthy breakdown of organic matter. Therefore, for any cannabis grower who wants to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizer, guano is a great alternative to get healthy plants.
What macronutrients and micronutrients does Bat Guano contain?
Bat Guano contains the three essential macronutrients needed for healthy plant development: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Nitrogen promotes the cannabis plant during its vegetative cycle, while phosphorus supports the roots and ensures healthy flowering. Finally, the right potassium content more or less guarantees sturdy branches and stems. Fortunately, guano is teeming with these nutrients, as well as an abundance of micronutrients that give cannabis plants the best possible quality of life, including:
- Boron – Helps plants utilize calcium; contributes to protein formulation.
- Calcium – Essential for growth of cell walls in the root system; improves nutrient uptake.
- Iron – Contributes to leaf respiration; affects enzyme production.
- Magnesium – Regulates the production of enzymes; plays a key role in converting light into energy.
- Manganese – Necessary for the production of chlorophyll; key to photosynthesis.
- Sulfur – Improves plant metabolism; promotes root growth.
- Zinc – Used in protein building; regulates enzyme function.
Experienced growers may have already noticed that these micronutrients can also be found in everyday fertilizers from the store. However, because guano is of natural origin, there is no risk of additional chemicals or additives diluting the effectiveness of the nutrients. Monster Bud Mix Organic Feed (248) View
Are there any risks associated with using Bat Guano?
While there are plenty of things that make Bat Guano great, it also has a few drawbacks. For example, it can be quite expensive and difficult to obtain. Especially guano products that are suitable for home growing are hard to find. On top of that, if guano is collected incorrectly, it can be devastating to the ecosystem. Unfortunately, the huge demand for it has also led to unethical collection methods. These in turn have had catastrophic consequences, for example by disrupting the bat population or affecting biodiversity in caves. There are also health risks associated with guano collection, such as the risk of histoplasmosis – a type of infection caused by inhaling Histoplasma capsulatum. This is a fungus that is present in areas with a lot of Bat Guano. Thus, it is best to leave the collection of guano to ethical companies operating in sustainable areas.
When and how can you use Bat Guano for weed?
If you do manage to get your hands on Bat Guano, it is easy to use. Below we have listed a number of methods you can try to make your plants perform better.
Super soil with guano
The soil in which you grow your weed has a huge influence on the development of your plants and the final yield. Because Bat Guano contains basically all the macro- and micronutrients you need, it is ideal to use as an ingredient for super soil. During the growth cycle, this ensures a gradual supply of nutrients to your plants. However, it is unsuitable for germinating seeds, for young seedlings and clones, as they are too fragile. To make your own super soil with guano, you will need the following things:
- 4 parts soil
- 1 part worm dung (or coffee grounds, sand or compost)
- 1 part coconut fiber
- 1 part perlite/vermiculite (for extra drainage)
- 2.5-5% guano
- 2.5% bone and/or blood meal
Mix the above ingredients in a container and you have a nutrient-rich mix that will come in handy during your plants’ growth. Simply plant your cannabis plants in the soil and continue to take good care of them. In this way they will eventually reward you with healthy, delicious buds.
Watering with Bat Guano
If you would like to give your plants a nutritional boost every now and then, add some guano to your water. Mix 2 to 3 teaspoons of guano with 3.5 liters of water and then water your beloved plants with it.
Cold Water Extract
You can also provide your plants with a cold water extract. This is similar to regular watering, but slightly different: By soaking the guano in the water for several hours before giving it to your plants, you ensure a better extraction. Your plants will receive a real nutrient boost instead of just a light one. This is a method you should not use too often, but you will be amazed at how well your plants respond!
Aerated guano tea
Building on making to your own guano extract, you can also try making aerated guano tea. You pull out the macro and micronutrients effortlessly by stirring 1 tablespoon of guano per liter of warm water. Leave the brew overnight, and you’ll have a nutrient-rich tea in the morning that you can use weekly to promote plant growth and overall soil quality.
Adding Bat Guano after placing plants in pots
If you’ve already started your growing project, but haven’t managed to get your hands on any guano yet, don’t worry! You can also add some when your plants are already in pots, and it’s very easy to do. Do not place the guano on top of the soil; dig away some soil around the plant and add your guano here. In this way it is immediately activated. Provide some water as well, so it gets mixed well with the surrounding soil.
Can Bat Guano lead to nutrient burn in weed?
Due to the nutrient-rich nature of Bat Guano, excessive or premature use can lead to so-called ‘nutrient burn’. So use it sparingly and only after your plants have gone through their seedling phase. In any case, try to go for a reputable brand when buying guano. While we don’t sell it in the Zamnesia Headshop, we do have many other organic fertilizers and boosters that provide all the macro and micronutrients that Bat Guano is known for. So if you’re having trouble getting your hands on real guano, we have plenty of options to accomplish the same!
