Is dairy manure better?

[Evelyn Hugo]

I'm thinking of shifting to dairy manure because I think fertilizer is just getting too costly for me. I know it still depends on the components of the manure as to which will get me to end products like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. But then it's really not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizer so I'm thinking, is it worth it?

I'm pretty sure it might not look like much but I will end up saving up more cash in the long run. I also wanna go chemical-free.

Better option or not? To those who tried it what are the pros and cons?

 

[Abe1980]

I'm thinking of shifting to dairy manure because I think fertilizer is just getting too costly for me. I know it still depends on the components of the manure as to which will get me to end products like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. But then it's really not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizer so I'm thinking, is it worth it?

I'm pretty sure it might not look like much but I will end up saving up more cash in the long run. I also wanna go chemical-free.

Better option or not? To those who tried it what are the pros and cons?

yup, it's definitely organic and natural, costs less too. but it can cause water pollution and I just can't stand the smell. this is why I'm still using fertilizer

 

[Kemt]

I'm thinking of shifting to dairy manure because I think fertilizer is just getting too costly for me. I know it still depends on the components of the manure as to which will get me to end products like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. But then it's really not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizer so I'm thinking, is it worth it?

I'm pretty sure it might not look like much but I will end up saving up more cash in the long run. I also wanna go chemical-free.

Better option or not? To those who tried it what are the pros and cons?

Yeah switching to dairy manure is a smart move to save cash and go green, it's not as punchy as synthetic fertilizer, but it's good for the soil in the long haul

 

[sonya123]

we use goat and sheep manure that is in straw bedding from our barn in winter and bad weather , works great on the gardens. I do use some fertilizer but just the low N kind like 0 20 20 and very little of that

 

[HappyMeal]

I'm thinking of shifting to dairy manure because I think fertilizer is just getting too costly for me. I know it still depends on the components of the manure as to which will get me to end products like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. But then it's really not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizer so I'm thinking, is it worth it?

I'm pretty sure it might not look like much but I will end up saving up more cash in the long run. I also wanna go chemical-free.

Better option or not? To those who tried it what are the pros and cons?

Dairy manure is a good option. It's cheaper and helps improve soil health, but you have to use more of it since it's not as concentrated. It's a great choice if you want to avoid chemicals and don't mind putting in some extra effort.

 

[HayStacker]

I'm thinking of shifting to dairy manure because I think fertilizer is just getting too costly for me. I know it still depends on the components of the manure as to which will get me to end products like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. But then it's really not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizer so I'm thinking, is it worth it?

I'm pretty sure it might not look like much but I will end up saving up more cash in the long run. I also wanna go chemical-free.

Better option or not? To those who tried it what are the pros and cons?

Using dairy manure can actually help you save money over time and keep your practices free from chemicals. Although it's not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizers, it still offers crucial nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphuros, and potassium. For many, the financial savings and positive impact on the environment could make up for the differenc in concentration

 

[Cropman80]

There are some positive sides to manure, but I think the cons outweigh, especially in certain conditions. The slow release and low nutrient levels make it a not so attractive choice especially if you need a quick boost for your crops

 

[cutanddry]

Just keep in mind that the nutrients in manure don't release as quickly or consistently as synthetic fertilizers, so it might not cover all your crops' needs right off the bat. Plus, you need to compost it properly to keep pathogens at bay, and it can be a bit messier to spread.

 

[0ldfashioned]

@Evelyn Hugo yep, it's good for your wallet, alright. One thing to be aware of is that manure can sometimes contain weed seeds. If the manure hasn't been composted properly, you might be introducing weeds to your field. While this isn't always a deal-breaker, it's something to keep in mind and can lead to more work in the long run.

 

[Saz3rac]

but it can cause water pollution and I just can't stand the smell.

yep, so true! the odor is a real thing, especially when you're spreading it. the water pollution though, is a risk if not managed properly.
The key is to apply it at the right time and in the right amounts. The biggest water issue is phosphorus buildup, which can cause runoff.
To avoid this, get a soil test to know your field's nutrient levels and a manure analysis to know the exact nutrient content of your manure. This helps you apply just the right amount to keep your soil healthy and avoid over saturating the land

 

[r9nger_hf]

I'm thinking of shifting to dairy manure because I think fertilizer is just getting too costly for me. I know it still depends on the components of the manure as to which will get me to end products like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. But then it's really not as concentrated as synthetic fertilizer so I'm thinking, is it worth it?

I'm pretty sure it might not look like much but I will end up saving up more cash in the long run. I also wanna go chemical-free.

Better option or not? To those who tried it what are the pros and cons?

I agree with what everyone's saying about the savings and the long-term soil health boost. It's a massive advantage, especially with the water retention gains. I think the main con is logistics. It's less concentrated so you'd need a much larger volume and more time and cost for application and spreading. That said, you even might need to adjust your equipment. I agree with @Saz3rac and get your manure and your soil tested. This prevents over-applying nutrients. Also have a solid plan for storage and be prepared for that nutrient release to be slower than synthetic.