Composted manure can be used more effectively than fresh because top-dressings can be placed where most needed in addition to the bulk applications turned under.
Annuals thrive best when heavily manured.
Plants of the squash and melon group like a large shovelful in the bottom of the hill, but this method should not be used except for rank-growing annuals. It is a mistake to place manure in the bottom of the hole when transplanting any woody subject. The quick growth that follows may mean disaster to the plant, which instead of increasing the top, should be spending its energies on root-growth to prepare for drought and frost. Manure should be used on transplanted shrubs and trees only as a top-dressing, and only to keep out frost rather than to fertilize. Of course, incorporation of manure with soil in advance of planting is always in order.