Manure

A useful source of soil nutrients

Farmyard manure has been used as a fertilizer in agriculture for centuries. It remains a valuable source of soil nutrients. Farmyard manure is the result of the decomposition of organic material in the barn. Examples include straw, hay and animal droppings.

This is a natural cycle that increases soil fertility and crop yield as a sustainable way.

Solid manure composting creates odors. When the decay process is faster and more efficient, odors can be prevented. A decrease in harmful gases also follows. BioAktiv offers the solution.

We offer

- BioAktiv-MZ: for treating solid manure.
> The product is also widely used in free-range barns.

Why compost manure?

Manure contains nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and also adds organic matter to the soil.

However, fresh manure may still contain a significant amount of easily degradable organic matter. By composting the manure first, this material is further broken down and stabilized.

A properly conducted composting process can make solid manure more uniform and easier to handle. Composting can also help reduce odor problems and sanitize the manure when the correct temperatures are maintained for a sufficient period of time.

How does composting solid manure work?

Composting is a biological process in which microorganisms break down organic material in the presence of oxygen.

Heat is generated during this process. As a result, the temperature in the compost pile can rise significantly. This is followed by a phase in which the material continues to break down and stabilize.

Several factors are important for a successful composting process:

1. Sufficient oxygen: Composting works best under aerobic conditions. A good structure and, if necessary, turning the pile ensure that sufficient oxygen remains available.
2. Ideal moisture content: Microorganisms need moisture, but a compost pile that is too wet can lead to oxygen-deprived conditions. A pile that is too dry also slows down the process.
3. Proper ratio of materials: The ratio between carbon-rich materials, such as straw, and nitrogen-rich materials, such as animal manure, affects the speed and quality of the composting process.
4. Temperature: During active composting, the temperature rises. A sufficiently high temperature can help reduce pathogens and weed seeds.

The Role of Microorganisms in Composting

Microorganisms are the driving force behind the composting process. Bacteria, fungi, and other organisms break down the organic material present step by step.

In the process, complex organic compounds are transformed into more stable forms. Different groups of microorganisms are active during the various stages of composting.

Adequate oxygen is important in this process. If a compost pile lacks sufficient oxygen, anaerobic processes can occur. This can slow down the composting process and contribute to unpleasant odors.

A well-managed compost pile actually promotes the aerobic breakdown of organic matter.

Benefits of Composted Manure

Well-composted manure can offer various benefits when applied to farmland.

• Improvement of soil structure: Organic matter can contribute to the formation of stable soil aggregates. This can improve water infiltration, water storage, and air circulation in the soil.
• Supply of organic matter: Compost supplies organic material to the soil and thus serves as a source of nutrients for soil organisms.
• Gradual release of nutrients: Some of the nutrients in compost are organically bound and are released gradually.
• Supporting soil life: Organic matter serves as food for various microorganisms and other soil organisms.
• Easier-to-handle material: After a proper composting and maturation process, a more stable and homogeneous material is produced that is easier to store, process, and spread.

Odor During the Composting of Manure

Odor-causing substances can be produced during the decomposition of fresh manure. Unwanted odors can increase, especially when parts of the compost pile become oxygen-deprived.

Proper aeration, an appropriate moisture content, and sufficient structure help maintain the aerobic composting process.

By properly managing the composting process, odor problems can be minimized, and a more stable end product is ultimately produced.

BioAktiv-MZ for solid manure

For the treatment of solid manure, BioAktiv offers BioAktiv-MZ.

BioAktiv-MZ is used to support the microbiological processes that occur during the composting of manure. Its use is intended to promote an active aerobic decomposition process and effective conversion of the organic material.

A successful composting process can result in a more homogeneous, stable compost with a suitable consistency for further processing and application to the land, such as in crop production.

Making Better Use of Manure

Composting manure involves more than just letting it sit for a while. To achieve good results, oxygen, moisture, structure, composition, and temperature must all be in balance.

When these conditions are properly managed, manure is transformed into a more stable organic product that can contribute to organic matter, soil structure, and soil life.

Would you like to know how BioAktiv-MZ can be used in the composting of manure? Please contact us. We’d be happy to help you find a solution tailored to your farm’s specific situation.