FARMYARD MANURE.

Northern Advocate, 3 September 1913, Page 3

FARMYARD MANURE.

Farmyard manure is one of the most valuable fertiliser agents at the disposal of the agriculturist. Not only is it rich in the three most essential requirements of plant life, namely, nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash, but by the peculiar nature of its composition, the physical properties of the soil to which it is applied are considerably improved. The nature of the food given to farm animals, the quantity of the litter broken down in the stables and cowsheds, and its treatment, from the time of production to its application to the land are three important factors bearing closely on the ultimate value of this manure. Unfortunately it varies In quality, cons'derably, more so, in fact than any other manure, and its value is often depreciated by improper treatment before being applied to the soil. Similarly, when carted out to the fields the manure is not infrequently allowed to remain in heaps for a great length of time; its beneficial properties are thereby considerably minimised. Immediately after production, it should be taken to the field and spread out,, without loss of time, over the surface of th" ground.