PLANT MANURE
Manure is a natural fertilizer
derived from the excreter of Man and livestock animals. It's mostly used in organic
farming systems to improve soil fertility and structure.
Manure is a valuable resource in
agriculture, providing a natural and effective way of enhancing soil fertility
and health structure.
 |
| Heap of Manure |
TYPES OF MANURE AND ITS BENEFITS:
Types
of Manure:
1.
Human Manure:
o
Contains nutrients like nitrogen,
and potassium. It improves soil structure and fertility. Usually irritated for
application because it’s from the human body, but very rich when decomposed.
2.
Cow
Manure:
o
Rich in nutrients like nitrogen,
phosphorus, and potassium. It also improves soil structure and water-holding
capacity. Usually needs to be composted before application to reduce pathogens
and odor.
3.
Chicken
Manure:
o
High in nitrogen, which is
beneficial for plant growth. It's often used in smaller quantities due to its
potency. Like cow manure, it should be composted to avoid burning plants with
its high nutrient concentration.
4.
Horse
Manure:
o
Contains a balanced mix of nutrients
and adds organic matter to the soil. It typically has a lower nutrient
concentration compared to chicken manure but is still effective when composted.
5.
Pig
Manure:
o
High in nutrients but also tends to
be more liquid, making it less convenient to handle. Proper composting and
storage are essential to manage odors and pathogens.
Benefits
of Using Manure:
 |
| Manure dug out |
- Nutrient Supply:
Manure provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium, which are critical for plant growth.
- Soil Structure:
It improves soil texture, aeration, and water-holding capacity, leading to
better root development and plant health.
- Organic Matter:
Adds organic material to the soil, which helps increase soil microbial
activity and overall soil fertility.
- Water Retention:
Enhances the soil's ability to retain moisture, reducing the need for
frequent irrigation.
Application
Tips:
- Composting:
Composting manure before application helps break down pathogens and weed
seeds, reduces odor, and makes nutrients more available to plants.
- Timing:
Apply manure during the off-season or before planting to allow nutrients
to integrate into the soil and reduce the risk of nutrient runoff.
- Amount:
Use manure in moderation to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to
nutrient runoff and environmental pollution.
Challenges:
- Odor and Pathogens:
Fresh manure can have a strong odor and may contain pathogens. Proper
composting and handling practices are essential.
- Nutrient Imbalance:
Manure can sometimes lead to an imbalance in soil nutrients if not used
correctly. Testing soil and manure can help manage nutrient levels.
