Manure Nutrient Values

Understanding the nutrient content of different types of manure is essential for effective soil management. Below are the average percentages of essential nutrients found in common types of manure:

Poultry Manure

Chicken Manure

• Nitrogen (N): 1.5%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 1.3%
• Potassium (K₂O): 0.8%
• Calcium (Ca): 2.3%
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.5%
• Sulfur (S): 0.4%
• Boron (B): 20 ppm
• Iron (Fe): 600 ppm
• Zinc (Zn): 300 ppm
• Copper (Cu): 100 ppm
• Manganese (Mn): 500 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 6:1 to 8:1

Turkey Manure

• Nitrogen (N): 2.8%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 2.4%
• Potassium (K₂O): 1.4%
• Calcium (Ca): 3.0%
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.6%
• Sulfur (S): 0.5%
• Boron (B): 25 ppm
• Iron (Fe): 700 ppm
• Zinc (Zn): 350 ppm
• Copper (Cu): 120 ppm
• Manganese (Mn): 550 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 6:1 to 8:1

Duck Manure

• Nitrogen (N): 1.1%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 1.4%
• Potassium (K₂O): 0.5%
• Calcium (Ca): 2.0%
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.4%
• Sulfur (S): 0.3%
• Boron (B): 18 ppm
• Iron (Fe): 500 ppm
• Zinc (Zn): 280 ppm
• Copper (Cu): 90 ppm
• Manganese (Mn): 450 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 6:1 to 8:1

Cow Manure

• Nitrogen (N): 0.6%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 0.4%
• Potassium (K₂O): 0.5%
• Calcium (Ca): 0.3%
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.2%
• Sulfur (S): 0.1%
• Boron (B): 5 ppm
• Iron (Fe): 200 ppm
• Zinc (Zn): 40 ppm
• Copper (Cu): 10 ppm
• Manganese (Mn): 30 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Dairy Manure

Dairy Slurry (Semi-Solid <20% DM)

• Nitrogen (N): 0.3%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 0.1%
• Potassium (K₂O): 0.4%
• Calcium (Ca): 0.2%
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.1%
• Sulfur (S): 0.1%
• Boron (B): 10 ppm
• Iron (Fe): 300 ppm
• Zinc (Zn): 50 ppm
• Copper (Cu): 20 ppm
• Manganese (Mn): 100 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Dairy Manure (Solid >20% DM)

• Nitrogen (N): 0.5%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 0.2%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.5%
• Calcium (Ca): 0.3%
• Magnesium (Mg): 0.2%
• Sulfur (S) 0.1%
• Boron (B) 8 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 250 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 45 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 15 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 80 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Horse Manure

• Nitrogen (N) 0.7%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 0.3%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.6%
• Calcium (Ca) 0.5%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.3%
• Sulfur (S) 0.2%
• Boron (B) 6 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 400 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 60 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 25 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 150 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Pig Manure

• Nitrogen (N) 0.7%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 0.5%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.4%
• Calcium (Ca) 0.4%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.2%
• Sulfur (S) 0.2%
• Boron (B) 7 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 350 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 70 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 30 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 120 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Goat Manure

• Nitrogen (N) 0.7%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 0.3%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.9%
• Calcium (Ca) 0.6%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.3%
• Sulfur (S) 0.2%
• Boron (B) 9 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 450 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 65 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 28 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 140 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Sheep Manure

• Nitrogen (N) 0.9%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 0.5%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.8%
• Calcium (Ca) 0.7%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.4%
• Sulfur (S) 0.3%
• Boron (B) 10 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 500 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 75 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 35 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 160 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 20:1 to 30:1

Human Waste

Biochar

• Nitrogen (N) 0.5%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 0.1%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.3%
• Calcium (Ca) 0.2%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.1%
• Sulfur (S) 0.1%
• Boron (B) 5 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 150 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 30 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 12 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 50 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 30:1 to 50:1

Raw

• Nitrogen (N) 5.0%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 3.0%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.5%
• Calcium (Ca) 1.0%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.5%
• Sulfur (S) 0.4%
• Boron (B) 15 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 800 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 200 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 80 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 300 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 10:1 to 20:1

Cotton Mulch

• Nitrogen (N) 0.5%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 0.2%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.5%
• Calcium (Ca) 0.4%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.2%
• Sulfur (S) 0.2%
• Boron (B) 12 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 300 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 50 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 20 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 100 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 100:1 to 150:1

Sugar Cane Mud

Sugar cane mud, also known as filter cake, is a by-product of the sugar industry. It is rich in organic matter and nutrients beneficial for soil health.

• Nitrogen (N) 1.0%
• Phosphorus (P₂O₅) 1.5%
• Potassium (K₂O) 0.5%
• Calcium (Ca) 2.0%
• Magnesium (Mg) 0.8%
• Sulfur (S) 0.3%
• Boron (B) 20 ppm
• Iron (Fe) 500 ppm
• Zinc (Zn) 70 ppm
• Copper (Cu) 25 ppm
• Manganese (Mn) 150 ppm
• Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: 25:1 to 30:1

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Factors Affecting Nutrient Content

It's important to note that the actual nutrient content of manure can vary based on several factors:

Animal Diet

The quality and composition of the animal's feed significantly affect nutrient levels in the manure. A nutrient-rich diet results in manure with higher nutrient values.

Manure Age

Over time, nutrient content can decrease due to:

• Volatilization: Loss of nitrogen to the atmosphere, especially in the form of ammonia.
• Leaching: Nutrients being washed away by water.

Storage Conditions

How manure is stored impacts nutrient retention:

• Exposure to Elements: Manure exposed to rain or sun can lose nutrients more quickly.
• Containment: Proper storage facilities can minimize nutrient loss.

Bedding Material

The type and amount of bedding mixed with the manure can dilute nutrient concentrations:

• High Absorbency Materials: Materials like straw or wood shavings can absorb nutrients, reducing the concentration in the manure.
• Proportion of Bedding: A higher ratio of bedding to manure leads to lower overall nutrient content.

Limitations

While this calculator provides average nutrient values, it's essential to consider the following limitations:

• Data Variability: The nutrient contents are averages and may not reflect specific conditions on your farm or garden.
• Micronutrient Availability: The availability of micronutrients to plants from manure depends on various factors, including soil pH, microbial activity, and manure decomposition rates.

Additional Suggestions

To maximize the effectiveness of manure application and nutrient management:

• User Guidance: Consider consulting with a local agricultural extension service or soil specialist for tailored advice. Soil testing can provide insights into nutrient levels and deficiencies.
• Interpretation of Results: Use the calculator's results as a guideline. Adjust manure application rates based on crop needs and existing soil nutrient levels.
• Expand Manure Types: If you have access to other manure types or soil amendments, you can add them to the calculator by following the existing data structure.
• Sustainable Practices: Incorporate manure into the soil promptly to reduce nutrient losses through volatilization or runoff.

Microbial Activity and Manure Benefits

Microbial activity in manure is vital for enhancing soil fertility and promoting healthy crop growth. Manures introduce beneficial microorganisms that aid in nutrient cycling, improve soil structure, and support robust plant development.

Microbial Activity and Manure Benefits

Microbial activity in manure is vital for enhancing soil fertility and promoting healthy crop growth. Manures introduce beneficial microorganisms that aid in nutrient cycling, improve soil structure, and support robust plant development.

Understanding the Microbial Activity Scale

To quantify the microbial activity in various manure types, a standardized scale out of 100 is utilized. This scale allows for precise comparison and better integration into agricultural planning and soil management practices.

Microbial Activity Scale (0-100)

Score Range	Description
81-100	Very High
61-80	High
41-60	Moderate to High
21-40	Moderate
0-20	Low

Manures High in Microbial Activity

The following manures from our list are particularly high in microbial activity and beneficial to crop growth:

• Poultry Manure (Chicken, Turkey, Duck)
• Dairy Slurry (Semi-Solid <20% DM)
• Goat and Sheep Manure
• Sugar Cane Mud
• Human Waste (Biochar and Raw)
• Cotton Mulch

Poultry Manure

Why it's beneficial:

• High Nutrient Content: Rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Low C:N Ratio: Decomposes rapidly, releasing nutrients and stimulating microbial activity.
• Microbial Diversity: Contains a diverse range of beneficial microorganisms.
• Benefits to Crops: Improves soil fertility and can increase crop yields.

Dairy Slurry

Why it's beneficial:

• Moisture Content: High moisture facilitates microbial movement and activity.
• Readily Available Nutrients: Contains soluble forms of nutrients easily utilized by plants and microbes.
• Enhances Soil Structure: Improves soil porosity and aeration.
• Benefits to Crops: Promotes healthy root systems and improves crop resilience.

Goat and Sheep Manure

Why it's beneficial:

• Pelleted Form: Breaks down easily, facilitating microbial decomposition.
• Balanced Nutrient Profile: Provides a steady release of nutrients.
• Rich in Beneficial Microbes: Enhances soil microbial populations.
• Benefits to Crops: Improves long-term soil health and crop productivity.

Sugar Cane Mud

Why it's beneficial:

• High Organic Matter: Feeds soil microbes.
• Contains Residual Sugars: Boosts microbial metabolism and proliferation.
• Improves Soil Properties: Enhances moisture retention and structure.
• Benefits to Crops: Increases microbial biomass, leading to better nutrient cycling.

Human Waste (Biochar and Raw)

Why it's beneficial:

• Nutrient-Rich: High in nitrogen and phosphorus.
• Biochar Form: Enhances microbial habitats due to its porous structure.
• Stimulates Microbial Activity: Provides substrates for microbes to thrive.
• Benefits to Crops: Improves soil fertility and promotes robust plant growth.

Note: Raw human waste must be properly treated to eliminate pathogens before application.

Cotton Mulch

Why it's beneficial:

• High Carbon Content: Serves as a food source for soil microbes.
• Improves Soil Structure: Enhances aeration and water-holding capacity.
• Supports Microbial Diversity: Encourages microorganisms involved in decomposition.
• Benefits to Crops: Promotes root development and can suppress soil-borne diseases.

Factors Affecting Microbial Activity in Manure

1. Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio: Optimal range is 25:1 to 30:1 for microbial decomposition.
2. Moisture Content: Essential for microbial metabolism and nutrient diffusion.
3. Organic Matter Quality: Readily decomposable compounds boost microbial activity.
4. Microbial Diversity: Diverse communities enhance nutrient cycling and soil health.

Maximizing Microbial Benefits from Manure

• Composting: Stabilizes nutrients and increases beneficial microbes.
• Proper Application Techniques: Incorporate manure into soil to protect microbes.
• Combining Manures and Amendments: Optimize C:N ratio and microbial synergy.
• Avoiding Over-Application: Prevents nutrient imbalance and environmental risks.

Additional Considerations

• Soil Testing: Determines existing nutrient levels and guides manure application.
• Soil pH: Optimal microbial activity occurs in soils with pH 6.0 to 7.5.
• Temperature: Warm temperatures enhance microbial metabolism.

Summary of Beneficial Manures

Manure Type	Microbial Activity (Score out of 100)	Benefits to Crops
Poultry Manure	85 (Very High)	Rapid nutrient release; significantly boosts microbial populations
Dairy Slurry	80 (High)	Enhances soil moisture and nutrient availability
Goat and Sheep Manure	75 (High)	Steady nutrient supply; improves soil organic matter
Sugar Cane Mud	78 (High)	Increases microbial biomass; improves soil properties
Human Waste (Treated)	82 (High)	Rich in nutrients; stimulates microbial activity
Cotton Mulch	65 (Moderate to High)	Supports fungal activity; enhances soil structure
Cow Manure	55 (Moderate)	Sustained nutrient release; improves soil over time
Horse Manure	50 (Moderate)	Enhances organic matter; benefits from composting
Pig Manure	52 (Moderate)	Provides nutrients; may need composting

Detailed Microbial Activity Scores

The following scores provide a quantitative measure of microbial activity for each manure type, facilitating informed decision-making in agricultural practices:

• Poultry Manure (85): Very High microbial activity due to its rich nutrient content and rapid decomposition rate.
• Dairy Slurry (80): High microbial activity supported by its balanced nutrient profile and high moisture content.
• Goat and Sheep Manure (75): High microbial activity from steady nutrient release and enhanced soil organic matter.
• Sugar Cane Mud (78): High microbial activity fueled by high organic matter and residual sugars.
• Human Waste (Treated) (82): High microbial activity with rich nutrients and biochar enhancing microbial habitats.
• Cotton Mulch (65): Moderate to High microbial activity, primarily supporting fungal communities.
• Cow Manure (55): Moderate microbial activity providing sustained nutrient release over time.
• Horse Manure (50): Moderate microbial activity, which can be increased through composting.
• Pig Manure (52): Moderate microbial activity, often requiring composting to stabilize and enhance benefits.

Additional Notes

• Composting Enhancements:
  • Properly composted horse manure can reach a microbial activity score of up to 70.
  • Pig manure can achieve a microbial activity score of around 65 after composting.
• Application Rates:
  • Use the microbial activity scores to determine appropriate application rates. High microbial activity manures like poultry manure may require lower application rates to prevent nutrient runoff and ensure optimal soil health.
• Soil Health Management:
  • Regular application of a combination of these manures, tailored to their microbial activity scores, can synergistically improve soil structure, fertility, and microbial diversity, leading to enhanced crop yields.

Note: The microbial activity scores provided are approximate and can vary based on factors such as manure source, storage conditions, climate, and specific soil characteristics. It's advisable to conduct soil tests and consult with agricultural extension services for tailored recommendations.