How to Cure Manure

A load of fresh manure is a gardener's idea of pure gold. But before you use this treasure from horses, cows or pigs, you need to age or cure it; otherwise, the heat it generates will burn plants' delicate roots.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh Manure
• Shovels
• Kitchen Utility Knives
• 2 Tarpaulins

Instructions

1. Find your source. A nearby dairy farm or riding stable usually will give you a truckload or two, or sell it for next to nothing. Gardeners prize horse manure above all other kinds, but cows and pigs also produce excellent plant food.

2. Pick up the manure in a truck or arrange to have it delivered. If you start curing your supply in the fall, it will be ready to use by spring planting time.

3. Spread a tarpaulin on the ground and dump the manure on top.

4. Fold the edges of the tarp up around the pile of manure.

5. Put another tarp on top and weight it with rocks or boards.

6. Cut two or three small vents in the tarp to let heat escape.

7. Wait six months, then disburse the riches throughout your garden.

8. Ensure a constant supply by starting a new pile every two or three months.

Tips & Warnings

• While the manure cures, the heat it generates will kill any weed seeds that might sprout among your plants.

• Goat manure is mild enough to use immediately; no curing necessary. So are rabbit droppings (a plant's idea of miracle food). Simply spread them on the ground, scratch them into the soil surface and add water.

• Never use dog or cat droppings in your garden; the produce of even the healthiest pets often contains disease organisms.

• Use pig manure only if you know the animals have been fed grain and vegetables, not fat-laden table scraps that can attract disease organisms.