Manure Bin

Hi folks.

I plan to build a bin purely for composting manure, using timber. The size would be roughly 8ftx3ftx3ft. I have access to fairly fresh manure, so what I'd like to know is, if I were to fill up the bin with this manure, when would it be ready to use? I was thinking this time next year? Obviously, I would turn it a couple of times. Also, should I cover the top? I was thinking maybe leave it open to the elements?

Cheers...Freddy.

 

I use salvaged polycarb sheets but that's what i do collect manure from local stables in feb/march store for a year,also gives me chance to do a couple of bean tests,to make sure there is no aminopyralid present,dig it in during late winter and the store is ready for refilling.
I also keep chickens but this manure i try to let rot for 2 yrs but struggle for space so have to give some away but changed the bedding from shavings to hempcore (hemp stems that have been blitzed) and this seems to rot quicker than wood so may be able to come down to 1 year fingers crossed.

 

I have taken delivery of some manure today and I have over estimated how much I need. It came in black plastic bags, what is the best way to store it? Can I leave in the bags at the back of the compost heap? I will probably be digging a new border in the spring and will put some in there.

Cheers
Rusty

 

Manure is ready to use when it is black, crumbly and free from odour...just like compost. To store it, treat it like a compost heap, turn it periodically then cover it to stop it getting too wet. Covering it with old carpet also helps raise the temperature which speeds the rotting process.

A comparison bean test is recommended even if your source says it's ok to use.

Steve...

 

Would it be ok in a green dalek type composters or best just chuck it in a pile and cover?

 

Be careful where you store it as the runoff can be nasty, especialy if it creeps onto a neighbours property.

 

I've not really got room to pile it on its own. Can it got into my normal compost heap I only started it in September? If so does it class as brown ( no jokes please ) or green waste?

 

Fred, fill the bin up, leave the sides open to allow air but cover the top with old carpet or somesuch to keep the heat in. Turn several times bringing the outer sides of the heap into the middle ( where the heat will be concentrated ) and it should be ready for spreading next autumn.

 

You lucky chap Freddy having so much manure!

If it was me I'd stack it and then add in layers to 'normal' garden/kitchen compost as the amonia in the muck will aid decomposition. However if you can't do that the advice regarding regular turning is right. Covering with a carpet to keep heat in is a good idea but you must keep the carpet fairly dry as wet carpet has the insulation properties of a wet vest! I do use carpet but it's on top of large plastic sacks and I've a sheet of corrugated iron on top of the whole heap.

You could also use the manure as a dilute liquid feed if you put some into a hessian sack and soak in water for a week or so.

 

Hi folks, thanks for the replies

As I understand it, rats can be a problem in a 'regular' compost bin. Would they still be a problem if the bin was filled with manure only?

Cheers...Freddy.

 

Hi Freddy

Hows you , the only problem would be that they may make a nest , its when people put food waste that attracts rats , but I look at it like this who knows what happens when its dark outside and what the the little critters get up too. Best not to know !!!!!

I wouldnt worry plus if it had a heavy gauge wire at the bottom and a good fitting lid that would help.

Spruce