What are the Steps to make composted manure safely at home

Steps to make composted manure safely at home

Composting raw manure is essential to kill pathogens, neutralize salts, and create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that won't harm your plants.

1. Choose a Location: Select a shady, well-drained spot away from your house and water sources.
2. Gather Your Materials: You need two types of materials:
   • "Greens" (Nitrogen-rich): Fresh animal manure (cow, poultry, goat).
   • "Browns" (Carbon-rich): Dried leaves, straw, sawdust, or shredded cardboard. The ideal ratio is about 2 parts brown material to 1 part green material.
3. Build the Pile: Start with a layer of bulky brown material (like twigs) for aeration. Then, create alternating layers of greens and browns, like making a lasagna. Lightly water each layer as you build it to keep it moist like a damp sponge, but not waterlogged.
4. Manage the Pile:
   • Aerate (Turn): Use a pitchfork to turn the pile every 1-2 weeks. This provides oxygen, which is essential for the aerobic bacteria that do the composting, and helps the pile heat up evenly.
   • Monitor Moisture: Check the moisture level regularly. If it's too dry, add a little water. If it's too wet and smells sour, add more dry brown material.
5. Know When It's Ready: The compost is ready in 2-4 months when it is dark, crumbly, and has a pleasant, earthy smell. You should no longer be able to distinguish the original materials.