HWN Suggests

Manure as a Nutrient Resource

Manure is rich in nutrients, including trace elements necessary for crop growth. Approximately 70-80% of nitrogen (N), 60-85% of phosphorus (P), and 80-90% of potassium (K) found in feeds is excreted in the manure. These nutrients can replace fertilizer needed for pasture or crop growth, eliminating the need to purchase fertilizers. Plants do not distinguish between sources of nutrients. However, compared to commercial fertilizer, manure contains organic carbon which is the key to maintaining soil health, including the characteristics of cation exchange capacity, soil tilth, and water holding capacity.

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Articles of Interest

Animal Manure

Historically, when families had their own cows, horses and chickens, animal manures were the primary source of vegetable garden fertilizer. Many gardeners continue the practice today whether using material from a local farm or buying commercially bagged manure which is available at garden stores and nurseries. Animal manures provide a plant’s basic nutrient needs of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, micronutrients to increase plant growth and organic matter to improve soil structure. But all animal manures are not created equal and knowing the differences can be important for the health of your garden as well as the health of you and your family. Animal manures come with heavy bacterial content which requires special handling. Always wear gloves and closed toe shoes or boots when working with manure and wash your hands thoroughly when you are done.

Environmental Benefits of Manure Application

For centuries, animal manure has been recognized as a soil “builder” because of its contributions to improving soil quality. Environmental benefits are possible from manure application if manure and manure nutrients are applied and timing and placement follows best management practices. When compared to more conventional fertilizer, manure properly applied to land has the potential to provide environmental benefits...

Fertilizing the Old-Fashioned Way—With Manure

Who needs a flashy package of tiny granules when you can feed your plants with manure? Unless you are starting a new bed that you don’t plan to plant for some time, it’s best to use composted manure in the garden. Fresh or raw manures are more concentrated in nutrients and will burn your plants. Sheep and especially poultry manure are considered “hot” and may burn seedlings and transplants, inhibit seed germination, or make your perennials grow so fast and thin that they fall over.

Should I Use my Beef Manure as Fertilizer?

Beef manure is inherently high in phosphorus. There are a few issues with over-applying phosphorus to land. This article discusses issues and offers solutions to using beef cattle manure as fertilizer.

What type of manure is the best fertilizer?

Any manure from any source will be at its best when it has been fully converted into compost. Cow manure that’s been converted to compost appears to be the most popular organic fertilizer. This is probably because it’s more readily available than most of the other sources.

Which Poo is Right for You?

Cold manures are lower in nutrients than hot manures. Cow manure is a great soil conditioner, adding organic matter and structure to garden soil. As a cow’s diet is mostly grass, their poo tends to be low in nutrients, so they are ideal for native gardens or vegetables that don’t need much food such as onions, carrots, parsnips, and beetroot.