Different animal manures have their own advantages and disadvantages as fertilizers, and the choice should be based on specific needs and conditions

1. Sheep dung

Features: Moderate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content, rich in fiber, moderate decomposition rate, and mild yet long-lasting fertilization effect.

Applicable Scenarios: Suitable for improving soil structure, enhancing water retention, and used for fruit trees, flowers, or long-term crops.

Precautions: Must be composted and matured to avoid direct application.

2. Cow dung

Features: High organic matter content but low nutrient levels (especially nitrogen), slow decomposition, and long-lasting fertility.

Applicable scenario: Suitable as base fertilizer for improving poor soil quality, used for field crops (such as corn and wheat).

Precautions: Must be mixed with high-nitrogen fertilizers (such as chicken manure) to enhance fertilization efficiency.

3. Pig manure

Characteristics: Rapid decomposition, high nitrogen content, but may contain parasite eggs and antibiotic residues.

Applicable Scenario: After decomposition, it is suitable as a top dressing for leafy vegetables (such as spinach and lettuce).

Precautions: Ensure thorough composting (high-temperature composting is recommended) to avoid root burn.

4. Chicken manure

Features: High nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content, fast-acting but prone to seedling scorch, with higher risks of salt and heavy metal content.

Applicable scenarios: Used for crops with high fertilizer requirements (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and fruit trees) after decomposition.

Precautions: Must be fully decomposed (requires 2-3 months), avoid excessive use to prevent soil salinization.

Comprehensive Recommendations:

Quick Fertilization: Use well-rotted chicken manure (ensure proper dosage control).

Long-term soil improvement: cattle dung or sheep dung (mixing yields better results).

Balanced Fertilizer Effect: Pig manure (ensure thorough decomposition).

Home Horticulture: Recommend sheep manure (safe and mild) or composted chicken manure (small amounts frequently).

General Principles:

Composting is key: All manure must be fully decomposed (odorless, loose texture), otherwise it can easily scorch roots and spread pests and diseases.

Combination use: Mixing different types of manure can balance nutrients (e.g., cow dung + chicken dung).

Adapt to local conditions: Choose based on the advantages of local livestock farming (e.g., using cattle manure in beef-producing regions).

**Note:** It is recommended to test the soil before use to avoid nutrient imbalance. Organic fertilizers should be combined with chemical fertilizers to meet the full growth period requirements of crops.