Cow Dung Manure

Introduction:

Cow dung manure is a natural, traditional, and organic soil amendment made from the excreta

of cows, often combined with urine, hay, and other biodegradable farm waste. Revered for

centuries in Indian and global agriculture, it remains one of the most effective and sustainable

fertilizers.

Cow dung manure is valued for its ability to:

• Enrich the soil with essential nutrients

• Improve soil structure and aeration

• Foster the growth of beneficial soil microbes

Nutrient Profile:

Cow dung manure typically contains:

• Organic Carbon: Up to 25%

• Nitrogen (N): 0.4% – 1.8%

• Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 0.2% – 0.9%

• Potassium (K₂O): 0.3% – 1%

These nutrients are slowly released, ensuring long-term availability and minimizing

nutrient leaching. The high organic matter also enhances moisture retention,

promotes soil aeration, and supports beneficial microbial activity.

Microorganisms present in cow dung contribute to:

• Decomposition of organic matter

• Nitrogen fixation

• Suppression of soil-borne pathogens

Agricultural Relevance & Future Outlook:

Cow dung plays a critical role in:

• Composting and vermicomposting processes

• Preparation of Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM)

• Soil conditioning in organic farming systems

As the world shifts toward regenerative, chemical-free agriculture, cow dung

manure is gaining renewed importance. It aligns perfectly with circular farming

principles, converting farm waste into valuable inputs while reducing the carbon

footprint of food production.

Its future is promising—driven by increasing demand for natural, residue-free

cultivation methods and the global movement toward sustainable farming.

Nutrient Composition of Cow Dung Manure

Nutrient                                          Typical Range                                              Function in Soil/Plants

Moisture Content                        70–80% (fresh), 20–30% (composted).       Maintains microbial activity and composting efficiency

Organic Carbon (C)                       15% – 25%                                                      Builds soil organic matter and supports microbes

Total Nitrogen (N)                        0.4% – 1.8%                                                    Supports leafy growth and protein synthesis

Available Phosphorus (P₂O₅)       0.2% – 0.9%                                                   Promotes root development and flowering

Available Potassium (K₂O)           0.3% – 1.0%                                                    Enhances fruiting, disease resistance, and water balance

Calcium (Ca)                                  0.5% – 1.5%                                                    Strengthens cell walls and supports root growth

Magnesium (Mg)                           0.3% – 0.6%                                                  Essential for chlorophyll and enzyme activation

Sulphur (S)                                     0.2% – 0.5%                                                  Aids in protein formation and overall plant vigour

Zinc (Zn)                                          25 – 45 ppm                                                 Involved in hormone production and enzyme

Copper (Cu)                                     15 – 35 ppm                                                 supports reproductive growth and lignin formation

Manganese (Mn)                            100 – 150 ppm.                                           Important for nitrogen metabolism and photosynthesis

Iron (Fe)                                          300 – 500 ppm                                            Vital for chlorophyll synthesis and respiration

Detailed Usage of Cow Dung Manure in Agriculture

1. As a Base Fertilizer (Soil Amendment)

• Application Timing: 2–3 weeks before sowing or transplanting

• Method: Incorporate 5–10 tons per acre of well-decomposed cow dung into

the topsoil (6–9 inches depth)

• Purpose: Enhances soil structure, aeration, moisture retention, and

nutrient availability, preparing the soil for healthy plant growth

2. As a Compost Enricher

• Use in Composting  : Mix cow dung with crop residues, dry leaves, kitchen waste, and other organics

  Benefits:

• Acts as a microbial inoculant

• Provides a natural nitrogen boost

• Accelerates decomposition

• Enhances the nutrient profile of finished compost

3. For Vermicomposting

• Feeding Base: Cow dung is an excellent food source for composting earthworms such as Eisenia fetida

   Preparation:

• Mix cow dung with agro waste (e.g., dry leaves or crop stubble) in a 1:1 ratio

• Pre-decompose the mixture for 10–15 days before introducing earthworms

• Outcome: Produces high-quality vermicompost rich in NPK, enzymes, and beneficial microbes

4. As Liquid Fertilizer (Cow Dung Slurry / Jeevamrut)

• Method of Preparation:

• Mix 5–10 kg fresh cow dung with 200 liters water

• Add jaggery, gram flour (besan), and a handful of native soil

• Ferment for 3–5 days in a shaded area

• Application:

• Use as foliar spray or soil drench every 15–20 days

 Effect:

• Boosts microbial activity in the rhizosphere

• Enhances nutrient absorption

• Strengthens plant immunity and overall vigor