MYTH: Bone meal is an indispensable soil amendment every gardener should have on hand

MYTH BUSTERS SERIES

THE FACTS

Bone meal supplies high levels of phosphorus and calcium.

Phosphorus and calcium are required for plant growth, but both (especially phosphorus) can cause problems if they occur in high concentrations. 

• Phosphorus and calcium are RARELY LIMITING in non-agricultural soils.
• High levels of phosphorus INHIBITS GROWTH of mycorrhizal fungi, causing the plant to put additional resources into root growth AT THE EXPENSE of other tissues and functions.
   

AND … its odor attracts dogs and other animals

Source:
Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott
https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/403/2015/03/bonemeal.pdf