Manuring: Definition, Benefits and Disadvantages

October 14, 2023December 4, 2023 Agric4Profits

Manuring refers to manure application or incorporation into the soil. Addition of which boost soil fertility as well as improve soil physical and chemical properties.

Manures could be from plant sources (green manure), from animals (e.g. cow dung, poultry manure) or a combination of plant and animal sources (compost).

Manures refer to any natural substance for fertilizing the soil especially dung or refuse e.g. farm yard manure, green manure, compost etc. The process of adding the manures to the soil is referred to as manuring.

Benefits of Manure Application

Manuring: Definition, Benefits and Disadvantages

1. Increased soil fertility: addition of manures help build up soil nutrient status e.g. N,P,K as well as micro nutrients like Mn. Nutrient content of manures however varies depending on source, moisture content, storage and handling methods.

2. Liming effect: manures from dairy and poultry have liming effects and actually counteract soil acidification.

3. Soil aggregation: incorporation of manures increase soil aggregation and pore spaces

4. Soil organic matter content: application of manures increases soil organic matter content which results in improved soil structure and water infiltration rate.

5. Drainage: application of manures improves drainage of soils especially clay soils

6. Water holding capacity: manures when applied to soils enhance the water retention capacity of soils.

Possible Disadvantages of Manure Application

1. Weed infestation: some manures carry weed seeds e.g. cow dung which can constitute a problem on crop fields.

2. Zinc deficiency: can be induced or increased with repeated high rates of manure especially on sandy soils

3. Salinity problems: application of manures could cause salinity problems on poorly drained soils, soils with existing salinity problems or unusually high application rates. Bulky in nature thus transportation to fields can be difficult.

In conclusion, manure application helps boost soil nutrient status and has little or no negative impact on the environment i.e. it is ecosystem friendly. Manures refer to any natural substance for fertilizing the soil especially dung or refuse.

Application of manures have lots of benefits some of which include; Increase in soil organic matter and nutrient content, soil aggregation, water holding capacity, drainage and has liming effect.