Premium bovine bone meal with 15% available phosphate (P₂O₅) and 24% calcium. Slow-release organic nutrition for robust roots, abundant blooms, and stronger plants — one application feeds for 3–4 months.
Delivers steady available phosphate (P₂O₅) over 3–4 months, promoting strong root development, abundant flowering, and quality fruit production with low burn risk when used as directed.
One of the highest organic calcium concentrations available. Strengthens cell walls, can help prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes, and supports overall plant structure.
Sourced from certified organic, non-GMO bovine bone meal. Safe for certified organic gardens and sustainable growing practices.
One application at planting can last 3–4 months as soil microorganisms gradually break down the bone meal, releasing nutrients when plants need them most.
A go-to amendment for tulips, daffodils, and other flowering bulbs. Place below bulbs at planting to fuel root establishment and spring blooms.
As bone meal decomposes, it nourishes beneficial soil microorganisms that can improve nutrient cycling, soil structure, and long-term fertility.
Gentle, slow-release formula is safe for transplants, seedlings, and established plants when applied at recommended rates.
Provides a small but steady nitrogen supply for early-season leaf growth without overstimulating foliage at the expense of roots and flowers.
The 24% calcium content makes bone meal one of the most effective organic tools for addressing calcium-related disorders in tomatoes, peppers, and squash.
Works in vegetable gardens, flower beds, orchards, containers, and raised beds. Compatible with most organic and conventional fertilizer programs.
Our bone meal is sourced from 100% organic, non-GMO bovine bone that is steam-processed and finely ground for consistent application and nutrient availability.
Steam-processed cattle bones providing 15% available phosphate (P₂O₅), 3% nitrogen, and 24% calcium. Certified organic source material, non-GMO.
Bone meal naturally delivers high available phosphate (P₂O₅) and calcium with moderate nitrogen — a profile that excels at root building, flowering, and fruit quality. Best performance occurs when soil temperatures are above 50°F and soil is kept evenly moist, as microbial activity drives nutrient release.
Provides slow-release nitrogen for steady vegetative growth without overstimulating foliage. Supports protein synthesis in plant tissues during the critical establishment phase.
The primary nutrient in bone meal. Available phosphate (P₂O₅) drives root development, energy transfer (ATP), flowering initiation, and fruit set. Essential for bulb establishment and transplant success. For a deeper look, see our article on The Function of Phosphorus in Plants.
Bone meal naturally contains no significant potassium. For complete nutrition, pair with Potassium Sulfate 0-0-53 for disease resistance and fruit quality.
Calcium strengthens plant cell walls, supporting disease resistance and structural rigidity. Critical for helping prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes, peppers, and squash. Also supports root tip growth and nutrient uptake. See our guide to Best Calcium Fertilizers for context on how bone meal compares.
Unlike fast-release synthetic phosphorus sources (MAP, TSP), bone meal releases available phosphate (P₂O₅) gradually over 3–4 months as soil microbes break it down, reducing the risk of phosphorus runoff.
Decomposing bone meal feeds beneficial soil organisms including mycorrhizal fungi, which in turn can extend root reach and improve nutrient uptake far beyond the root zone. Learn more about how soil microbes affect plant health.
Few fertilizers deliver both available phosphate (P₂O₅) and calcium in a single organic package. This dual action can address two of the most common deficiencies in garden soils simultaneously.
Results vary with soil temperature, moisture, and microbial activity. Best performance when soil temps are above 50°F.
Apply bone meal at planting time for best results. Work into soil before planting or mix into planting holes. Application rates are general guidelines — always consider soil test results, as phosphorus can accumulate in soil over time.
| Application Type | Rate | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Soil Preparation | 1 lb per 10 sq ft | Mix into top 6" of soil |
| Flowers | 1 cup per plant | Mix into soil around root zone |
| Shrubs & Small Trees | 1 cup under root ball | Plus 1 cup in backfill soil |
| Vegetables | 0.5–1 lb per 10 sq ft | Adjust based on soil P levels |
| Bulbs, Corms & Tubers | 1 tbsp per bulb | Mix 1–2" below bulb placement |
| Potted Plants | 1 tbsp per inch diameter | Mix into potting soil |
| Crop | Application Rate | When to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 2 tbsp per hole | At transplanting |
| Roses | 1–2 cups per bush | Early spring & after first bloom |
| Tulips / Daffodils | 1 tsp per bulb | Fall planting |
| Root Vegetables | 2 lbs per 25' row | Before seeding |
| Fruit Trees | 1–3 cups per tree | Early spring or at planting |
Conversion note: Approximately 2 cups per pound (varies by grind).
Bone meal works best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). In alkaline soils above pH 7.0, phosphorus binds with calcium and becomes less available to plants. If your soil pH is high, consider using MAP 12-61-0 for a faster-acting phosphorus source, or amend soil pH first.
Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in the Documents section for complete safety information.
| Feature | Bone Meal 3-15-0 | Rock Phosphate | Single Super (SSP) | Triple Super (TSP) | Blood Meal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Available Phosphate (P₂O₅) | 15% | 3–5% | 16–20% | 44–46% | 1% |
| Calcium | 24% | 30% | 18–21% | 12–14% | 0% |
| Nitrogen | 3% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 13% |
| Sulfur | 0% | 0% | 11–12% | 1–2% | 0% |
| Release Speed | Slow (3–4 mo) | Very Slow | Fast | Fast | Fast |
| Organic | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| pH Effect | Minimal | Raises pH | Lowers pH | Lowers pH | Lowers pH |
Build a complete organic garden nutrition program around bone meal's available phosphate (P₂O₅) and calcium foundation.
Fast-acting organic nitrogen for leafy growth. Pairs perfectly with bone meal's phosphorus for balanced NPK.
EssentialCompletes the NPK trio. Can improve fruit quality, disease resistance, and drought tolerance.
OrganicMarine-sourced alternative to bovine bone meal. Higher nitrogen at 4% with comparable available phosphate (P₂O₅) at 17%.
OptionalCorrects iron chlorosis (yellowing) in alkaline soils where bone meal may be less effective.
OptionalWater-soluble available phosphate (P₂O₅) for quick correction when bone meal's slow release isn't fast enough.
Bone meal excels at promoting root development, flowering, and fruiting. It's particularly well-suited for bulbs (tulips, daffodils), transplants, root vegetables, and flowering plants like roses. The high available phosphate (P₂O₅) content (15%) can trigger blooming while calcium (24%) strengthens cell walls and may help prevent disorders like blossom end rot in tomatoes. For a deeper look at why phosphorus matters, see our article on The Function of Phosphorus in Plants.
Bone meal is a slow-release fertilizer that continues feeding plants for 3–4 months. One application at planting typically lasts an entire growing season. The nutrients become available gradually as soil microorganisms break down the organic material. Bone meal works faster in warm soils (≥50°F) with active microbial life. Learn more about how soil microbes affect nutrient release.
The risk of burn is low when bone meal is used as directed. Its slow-release nature provides gentle, sustained nutrition. However, excessive amounts can raise phosphorus levels too high, potentially interfering with micronutrient uptake, so follow recommended rates and consider soil testing before each growing season.
Bone meal can be an excellent addition for tomatoes. The available phosphate (P₂O₅) supports strong root systems and fruit development, while the 24% calcium content may help prevent blossom end rot. Apply 2 tablespoons in each planting hole at transplant time. For a complete tomato feeding program, see our guide to Best Fertilizers for Tomatoes.
Apply bone meal at planting time for best results. Mix it into the soil before planting or add to planting holes. For established plants, work it into the top 2 inches of soil in early spring as growth begins. Fall application works well for spring bulbs. For more on soil preparation timing, see The Organic Gardener's Guide to Soil Preparation.
Yes, the smell can attract dogs and wildlife. Always mix bone meal thoroughly into the soil and water in well after application. Store in sealed containers and consider using it in fenced areas if animals are a concern. Do not leave bone meal on the soil surface.
Bone meal has minimal effect on soil pH when used at recommended rates. However, the 24% calcium content can slightly raise pH with large or repeated applications. If you need calcium without raising pH, consider Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate) as a pH-neutral calcium source. For a broader look at calcium sources, see our article on Best Calcium Fertilizers.
Bone meal has a mild, earthy scent that is noticeable when handling but much less pungent than blood meal or fish-based fertilizers. The smell fades quickly once worked into soil and watered in. Store in a sealed container to minimize odor.
Bone meal is generally safe when incorporated into soil as directed. However, dogs in particular may be attracted to the smell and could dig it up or consume it directly from the bag. Large quantities consumed directly can cause digestive issues. Always mix bone meal into soil, water it in, and store bags out of reach of pets.
Bone meal pairs well with most organic and conventional fertilizers. For a complete organic program, combine with Blood Meal 13-0-0 for nitrogen and Potassium Sulfate 0-0-53 for potassium. Learn more in our guide to Organic vs Synthetic Fertilizer: Key Differences and Tips.
Not satisfied with your purchase? Contact us within 90 days for a full refund or replacement. We stand behind every product in our collection.
Family-owned since 1989, Greenway Biotech has been helping gardeners grow healthier plants for over 35 years. We manufacture and package our products at our facility in Madera, California — quality you can trace from source to shelf.
Our gardening experts are available to answer your questions about application rates, timing, and compatibility with other fertilizers. Reach us at questions@greenwaybiotech.com.
Check out our full FAQ page or contact our experts for personalized advice.
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