Compost and other forms of organic matter. Which nutrients are in low supply? What is the soils pH, which can inhibit the plants uptake of nutrients? When was the last time you had a soil test done? What is the humus level of your soil? How well does it drain? What does it smell like?

I've never used it but have read that other people have and the author seems to know of which he speaks.

A Better Way to Fertilize Your Garden - Homemade Organic Fertilizer

Lloyd

It might not be relevant, but legumes, either annual or perennial, can do a great job of fertilising by fixing nitrogen, providing a living mulch and the taller ones like favas make great mulch and biomass when chopped down and left in situ, or composted.
When you say "a large area", is it a food garden, ornamental, lawn...?

Any ideas for something I can mix together and sprinkle around the plants that wouldn't cost an arm and a leg?

What nutrient are you trying to deliver?

Dan

Hi Everyone,
The area that I need to fertilize are established beds with bushes trees roses and perennials. The soil has had shredded wood and leaves for years as mulch. The PH here runs on the slightly alkaline side. Acid loving plants do not do well unless I amend the soil.
Thanks for responding,
Vicki

You haven't told us what nutrient the soil needs. Therefore we cannot answer your question until we have this information.

Dan

Ok I will be getting those results soon. I will let you know. Thanks,
Vicki

A general nutrient balance would not hurt, no matter what the soil test said, unless you have very high amounts of one elements over the others.
But a soil test is still the place to start.
I am doing Bio-char bed this year & am going to test the soil in the bed first, the 12 months later to see what the change is.