NZ Lifestyle Block

How to compost manure

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Manure needs to be part of balanced heap with a carbon to nitrogen ratio of 30:1. Not enough carbon (eg, wood shavings, cardboard, straw, dried leaves etc) and much of the nitrogen will be lost as gas.

A well-constructe­d compost heap will heat up in the centre to 60-70°C which kills off most bacteria, viruses, and even coccidia and worm eggs in the manure. It won’t kill some forms of listeria and clostridiu­ms.

Turn it a couple of times to ensure all the manure has been exposed to the heat of the pile, then cover and leave to mature for three months before use.

 ??  ?? A quality compost using chicken poo needs a good balance of carbon to nitrogen.
A quality compost using chicken poo needs a good balance of carbon to nitrogen.

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