Understanding Manure

Manure is a decomposed organic matter that supplies small quantities of nutrients to the soil. It is prepared by the decomposition of animal excreta and plant waste. While human manure can be used, it is generally advised to stick to manure from herbivores due to potential health risks.

Preparing Manure for Garden Use

Manure can be prepared and used in various ways, depending on your garden needs.

DIY Manure Preparation

For those without livestock, collecting and preparing manure can be a straightforward process. For instance, during the colder months, I was able to gather cow patties from my local farm, dry them, and crush them into smaller pieces. Mixing these with sand, dirt, or compost in a bucket, and then watering it down, can help transform fresh manure into a more stable form of fertilizer. This method requires patience, as it may take time for the ingredients to fully break down and become suitable for use.

Professional Manure

For a more convenient option, you can purchase pre-aged manure from a local supplier. Cow manure is especially popular among organic farmers and gardeners. A local farmer dries the manure and stores it in 5-gallon buckets, letting it age for a full year before selling it. The result is a highly decomposed and odor-free manure that is ready for use in the garden.

Applying Manure to Your Garden

The best time to apply manure to your garden is during the fall, allowing it to age naturally over the winter. This breaks down the manure, reducing the concentration of ammonia and preventing it from burning new plants in the spring. Once aged, spread the manure around your garden and work it into the soil before planting.

Organic Farmer's Method

An organic farmer named Joel Salatin advocates for the use of the 'deep litter' method. This involves leaving the manure and bedding straw in the coop/livestock area all winter. The process enriches the soil and encourages a diverse ecosystem. To learn more about this method, you can read his detailed explanations or consult his books.

Composting Tips for Optimal Use

Before using manure directly in your garden, it is recommended to compost it with carbon-rich materials such as leaves, straw, or sawdust. This helps to break down the manure further and makes it more suitable for immediate use. When composting, ensure that the carbon materials are mixed in properly, as they act as a filter and help balance the nitrogen content of the manure.

Manure can be carefully applied to the surface of the soil, but it should not be overused or too close to plants, as it can tie up nitrogen, which can be detrimental to plant growth.

Conclusion

Manure is a valuable resource for gardeners looking to improve soil health and promote plant growth without relying on chemical fertilizers. By understanding the preparation and application processes, you can harness the full potential of manure to create a thriving garden ecosystem.