Farmyard manure (FYM) is an organic fertilizer made from the dung and urine of farm animals, along with bedding materials and other organic waste. The process of making FYM involves several steps to ensure that it is nutrient-rich and safe for use in agriculture. Here’s an overview of the procedures typically involved in producing FYM:
1. Collection of Raw Materials
- Animal Manure: The primary source of FYM is the dung of livestock such as cows, sheep, goats, horses, and poultry, along with their urine.
- Bedding Material: This includes straw, hay, sawdust, or other organic materials used for bedding animals. The bedding helps absorb urine and keeps the manure dry.
- Other Organic Waste: Crop residues, kitchen waste, and green waste can also be added to enhance nutrient content.
2. Storing the Manure
- Storage Facilities: The collected manure and bedding should be stored in a covered area to prevent leaching and reduce odor emissions. A pit, barn, or compost pile is typically used for this purpose.
- Moisture Control: It’s important to monitor and maintain appropriate moisture levels in the manure pile to facilitate decomposition.
3. Composting Process
- Layering: The manure and bedding materials are layered, ensuring proper aeration. A typical ratio of carbon to nitrogen (C:N ratio) is maintained (around 25:1 to 30:1) to promote microbial activity.
- Turning: The pile should be periodically turned or mixed to aerate it, promote even decomposition, and reduce odor. This can be done manually or using machinery.
- Temperature Monitoring: As decomposition occurs, the pile will heat up due to microbial activity. The temperature is monitored; it should reach and maintain a range of 130°F to 150°F (55°C to 65°C) for several days to effectively kill pathogens and weed seeds.
4. Curing
- After the initial composting period, the material should be allowed to cure for several weeks (6 to 12 weeks is common). This allows the microbial processes to continue until the compost stabilizes, resulting in a well-decomposed, dark, crumbly product.
5. Screening and Application
- Screening: The mature manure may be screened to remove large particles or clumps, especially if it will be applied directly to fields.
- Application: Farmyard manure can be applied directly to fields, gardens, or orchards, often in the fall or spring depending on the crop requirements and local agricultural practices.
6. Record Keeping and Management
- Record Keeping: It’s essential to maintain records of the types and amounts of materials used, the process conditions, and application rates to ensure effective use and management of FYM.
- Nutrient Management: Testing the nutrient content of FYM before application can help determine the appropriate rates to apply based on crop needs.
Conclusion
Farmyard manure serves as an excellent organic fertilizer that enhances soil fertility, improves soil structure, and promotes biological activity in the soil. Following proper procedures for its production and application helps ensure its effectiveness and sustainability as a nutrient source for crops.