How to Use Manure for Compost

Overview

Manure is rich in nutrients and makes a great compost, but it's important that the manure be decomposed first, because fresh manure can "burn" the roots of your plants. Making a manure compost is an easy task, one that any gardener or animal keeper can handle.

Using Manure for Compost Material

Step 1

Build or purchase a composting bin. Otherwise, designate an area of the yard for a compost pile and lay down a sheet of landscaping fabric to keep it together and stop weeds from growing through. A far-off corner of the yard is best, as the initial odor from the manure may be carried in the wind.

Step 2

Deposit the manure and used bedding material into the compost every time the cage or pen is cleaned and cover with a layer of organic garden soil (plain old dirt is fine) each time.

Step 3

Allow the microbes, bacteria, grubs and earthworms to do their job of physically breaking down the manure for two to three months, untouched.

Step 4

Turn the compost pile, using a shovel. The inner areas of the pile will be warmer and more composted than the outside.

Step 5

Allow the compost to sit for another two months, to ensure that everything is completely broken down. Mix it one last time.

Step 6

Cover with a tarp or a layer of fall leaves and allow the manure compost to cure for at least three months. The curing period is necessary to neutralize the pH level of the soil.