What is Manure? Definition, Types, Advantages and Disadvantages

Manure is a material which is organic in form and uses as a fertilizer. Manure is formed from the water of animals or from the decomposition of animal bodies or plant debris. It is used by the farmers in the field for a better crop or to provide a healthy crop by providing nutrients and essential elements to the plant and soil.

What is Manure?

Manure is a decomposed form of dead plants and animals that is applied to the soil to increase productivity. It is a cost-effective and natural fertiliser. Manure can also be made from any living being and animal waste. Nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium are abundant in livestock excrement. Manure contains organic compounds and humus, which boost soil fertility. These are better in the long run and more environmentally friendly. It is a renewable resource.

Manure is a fantastic soil improver. When applied to agricultural fields, it acts as a field residue. Farmers can sell their manure to anyone who wants to improve their soil’s fertility. As a result, it may be able to generate income for farmers. They boost the soil’s overall capabilities and long-term viability. The ability of water storage is improved by manure. Raw manure, such as biochar, compost, and other organic materials, can help boost the organic content of the soil.

The solid content of various types of manure is roughly 26%. The solids are separated from the liquids, and the solids are used as bedding. Various biofuels can be made from carbon and other components. Manure also has a high fibre content. Fibre is abundant in undigested animal feed, straw, sawdust, and other bedding. Manure is environmentally friendly and increases food production greatly. Feeding an increasing population was incredibly tough. Manure treatment increases crop productivity and improved soil fertility. Different sources of Manure are:

1. Plant waste
2. Weeds, water hyacinth etc.
3. Waste of animals and humans
4. Debris of plants
5. Agricultural By-products

Types of Manure

Green Manure

Using green manure increases the amount of organic matter in the soil. This type of manure has deep roots in the ground. These aid in weed management and the avoidance of soil erosion.

Farmyard Manure

Farmyard manure improves soil texture and is used as a natural fertiliser. It increases the ability of the soil to retain more water and minerals. It also increases mineral delivery and plant nutrition by increasing soil microbial activity.

Compost Manure

It improves soil structure as well as water and nutrient retention. As a result, it increases plant health by increasing nutrient value.

Advantages of Manure

1. It improves the edaphic factors i.e (water-holding capacity).
2. It allows gas exchange by making the soil more porous.
3. The texture of the soil improves.
4. The amount of microorganisms in the soil is increasing.
5. Synthetic fertilisers wreak havoc on our rivers, endangering marine life and degrading water quality.
6. Organic fertilisers are linked to soil texture and do not let the soil run off easily.

Disadvantages of Manure

1. Because not all organic goods are created equal, many have different effects.
2. Organic fertiliser is rapidly deficient in nutrients. Furthermore, because nutrients are usually complex in organic chemical structures, organic fertilisers may not provide the same flash of colour as chemical fertilisers.
3. While making your own compost is doable, it is a dirty and time-consuming process that typically results in an inconsistent product and end result.

FAQs on Manure

Question 1: What is manure?

Answer:

Animal feces make up manure, which is an organic substance. These are obtained naturally and have no adverse effects on the planet or the environment.

Question 2: How is manure beneficial to us?

Answer:

Manure improves the Edaphic factors of soil (Water holding capacity, soil Profile). It adds nutrients to the soil and makes it more fruitful. It also has no detrimental effects on bodies of water.

Question 3: Is cow dung the most effective type of manure?

Answer:

Cow dung is the most effective manure for gardening. It can also be used as a nutrient-rich fertiliser when decomposed and applied to crops.

Question 4: How long does it take to compost?

Answer:

Manure takes three months to convert to compost in a hot, humid atmosphere. If the conditions aren’t optimal, composting can take a year. The easiest available  type of manure to compost is horse faeces. Composting takes about 4-6 weeks to complete.

Question 5: Why is manure preferable to fertilisers?

Answer:

Manure provides nutrients to the soil while keeping its fertility. It produces healthy plants and has no negative effects on the crops. Fertilizers are substances that reduce soil fertility when used on a regular basis. Crops are also harmed, rendering them unfit for human consumption.

Question 6: What are the different types of manure?

Answer:

There are three types of manure:

1. Compost Manure
2. Green Manure
3. Farmyard Manure

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