Organic manure is a natural fertilizer made from decomposed organic materials, such as kitchen scraps, yard waste, and animal manure. It is an excellent source of nutrients for plants and helps improve soil structure and water retention. Making organic manure at home is a sustainable and cost-effective way to fertilize your garden or potted plants.
Key Facts
- Composting is the process of decomposing organic materials, such as kitchen scraps and yard waste, into nutrient-rich compost or manure.
- There are different methods of composting, including aerobic composting (with oxygen), anaerobic composting (without oxygen), and vermicomposting (using worms).
- Aerobic composting is a common method for making manure at home. It is odorless and can be done in small spaces like a balcony or even indoors.
- To make manure at home through aerobic composting, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Add kitchen waste, such as fruit peels, vegetables, eggshells, coffee grounds, or tea leaves, to a container.
- Step 2: Add “browns” like dry shredded leaves, sawdust, or cocopeat to control moisture and provide carbon.
- Step 3: Arrange for microbes to break down the waste. You can get microbes from semi-done compost, cow dung, or by adding buttermilk.
- Step 4: Provide oxygen by making perforated holes in the container or by turning the pile of waste every four days.
- Step 5: Keep adding kitchen waste daily and ensure oxygen flow. The manure will be ready in 40-45 days.
Methods of Composting
There are three main methods of composting: aerobic composting (with oxygen), anaerobic composting (without oxygen), and vermicomposting (using worms). Aerobic composting is the most common method for making manure at home. It is odorless and can be done in small spaces like a balcony or even indoors.
Steps for Aerobic Composting
To make manure at home through aerobic composting, follow these steps:
Step 1: Add Kitchen Waste
Add kitchen waste, such as fruit peels, vegetables, eggshells, coffee grounds, or tea leaves, to a container. This container can be a bucket, drum, or terracotta pot. For a continuous cycle, it is recommended to maintain two containers so that if one is filled, you can continue the process in the other.
Step 2: Add “Browns”
Add “browns” like dry shredded leaves, sawdust, or cocopeat to control moisture and provide carbon. The ratio of browns to greens should be approximately 2:1.
Step 3: Arrange for Microbes
Arrange for microbes to break down the waste. You can get microbes from semi-done compost, cow dung, or by adding buttermilk. Microbes are essential for the decomposition process.
Step 4: Provide Oxygen
Provide oxygen by making perforated holes in the container or by turning the pile of waste every four days. Oxygen is necessary for the aerobic composting process.
Step 5: Keep Adding Kitchen Waste
Keep adding kitchen waste daily and ensure oxygen flow. The manure will be ready in 40-45 days. The composting process is complete when the mixture resembles dark, crumbly soil and has an earthy smell.
Conclusion
Making organic manure at home through aerobic composting is a simple and effective way to fertilize your plants and improve your soil. By following these steps, you can create nutrient-rich manure that is beneficial for your garden and the environment.
References
- How to Compost: 5 Steps That’ll Give You Organic Manure in Just 40 Days!
- How to Make Compost at Home
- How to make organic manure for plants
FAQs
What is manure, and why is it beneficial for plants?
Manure is a natural fertilizer made from decomposed organic materials, such as kitchen scraps, yard waste, and animal manure. It is beneficial for plants because it provides essential nutrients, improves soil structure, and helps retain water.
What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic composting?
Aerobic composting is a process that uses oxygen to decompose organic materials, while anaerobic composting does not. Aerobic composting is more common for making manure at home because it is odorless and can be done in small spaces.
What materials can I use to make manure at home?
You can use a variety of materials to make manure at home, including kitchen scraps, yard waste, dry leaves, sawdust, cocopeat, cow dung, and buttermilk.
How long does it take to make manure at home?
The time it takes to make manure at home depends on the method used and the materials being composted. Aerobic composting typically takes 40-45 days, while anaerobic composting can take several months.
How do I know when my manure is ready to use?
Your manure is ready to use when it resembles dark, crumbly soil and has an earthy smell. It should also be free of any recognizable pieces of food or other organic materials.
How should I store and use manure?
Store manure in a covered container in a cool, dry place. When using manure, it is best to apply it to the soil several weeks before planting. You can also mix manure with water to create a liquid fertilizer.
Can I use manure from animals other than cows?
Yes, you can use manure from other animals, such as horses, chickens, and rabbits. However, it is important to note that manure from some animals, such as dogs and cats, can be harmful to plants.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when making and using manure?
Yes, it is important to wear gloves and a mask when handling manure to avoid contact with harmful bacteria. You should also wash your hands thoroughly after handling manure.