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What is chicken manure used for?

Aug 15, 2023

Chicken manure is a valuable resource in gardening and agriculture due to its nutrient-rich composition, and serves multiple purposes and can be utilised in various ways to enhance soil fertility and encourage plant growth. To find out more about chicken manure – beyond its particular linguistic use as to describe someone who might be a little cowardly – we're going to explore the diverse uses of chicken manure and its benefits for your garden here.


Chicken manure is a natural byproduct of raising chickens (for more information on this aspect, be sure to check out a copy of Everybody Poops from your local library) and is popular to use since high nutrient content makes it an excellent organic fertiliser. Chicken manure is naturally rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with essential micronutrients –all of which are vital for plant growth and development, and thus making chicken manure a valuable resource for enriching soil fertility.


What can I best use chicken manure for?


One common use of chicken manure is as a soil amendment, since it can be incorporated into garden beds or mixed into potting soil to improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. The organic matter in chicken manure also enhances microbial activity in the soil, promoting a healthy soil ecosystem.


Another application of chicken manure is in composting. When combined with other organic materials, such as straw, leaves, or kitchen scraps, chicken manure undergoes decomposition, creating nutrient-rich compost. This compost can be used as a top dressing, soil amendment, or added to potting mixes to provide a slow-release source of nutrients for plants.


Chicken manure can also be used as a mulch, since, by spreading a layer of chicken manure around plants, it helps conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and gradually release nutrients as it breaks down. This method is particularly beneficial for heavy feeders like vegetables and fruiting plants.


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Whether it's used as a fertiliser, for soil amendment, as a compost ingredient, or as a mulch (just make sure you're not using it as an insult), chicken manure enriches soil fertility and promotes healthy plant growth. To discover more about utilising chicken manure effectively and to access quality gardening supplies, reach out to the team at Narellan Sand, Soil & Garden Supplies for further information and assistance, and our experts will make sure we give you the dirt about how best to use this material for your garden projects – or to provide you with the perfect chicken manure in bulk.


That's not a euphemism, we swear.


Additional FAQs

  • Can you put chicken manure straight on the garden?

    No, fresh chicken manure should not be applied directly to the garden. It is best to compost or age the chicken manure first to allow it to decompose and reduce the risk of burning plants with its high nitrogen content.

  • How long should chicken manure age before use?

    Chicken manure should be aged or composted for at least six months to a year before using it in the garden. This aging process helps break down the manure, reduce its ammonia content, and allow beneficial microorganisms to work on breaking down any pathogens.

  • Is too much chicken manure bad for plants?

    Yes, excessive amounts of chicken manure can be detrimental to plants. It contains high levels of nitrogen, which, if overapplied, can lead to nitrogen burn, nutrient imbalances, and potential harm to plant roots. It is important to use chicken manure in moderation and follow recommended application rates.

  • Is chicken manure better than compost?

    Chicken manure is high in nitrogen and can provide a quick nutrient boost, while compost improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and promotes overall soil health. The choice depends on specific plant needs and soil conditions.

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