Qualities of Cow Manure Compost

Composted cow manure is an excellent soil amendment. Properly prepared, it is odor- and pathogen-free. Composted manure is available in nursery and garden shops, and, if you are lucky enough to live near cows, you can make your own.

Composted cow manure makes excellent compost.

Odor, Weed and Pathogen Free

As compost heats up, pathogens and bacteria that cause odors are destroyed. The composting process kills weed seeds, too.

Soil Structure

Cow manure improves soil structure. Soil becomes less resistant to compaction and holds water better.

Nutrients

Because it is lower in nutrients than other types of manure, you can use cow manure more frequently without risk of overfeeding.

Types of Cattle

Dairy cow manure contains fewer weed seeds and has a lower salt content than steer manure and is therefore more desirable as compost.

Fresh Cow Manure

Fresh cow manure should be aged at least 60 days before being added to the garden. Place the manure in a compost bin or simply create a 3-foot-square pile. Turn the pile weekly and use freely.

Innovative Use

Manure fiber-based seed starting pots can be planted directly in the garden. Biodegradable and renewable, they are the brainchild of---who else?---two dairy farmers.

References

• Manure Matters