Chicken Manure Tea: Safe Preparation and Use

Raw Manure Risks

Fresh chicken manure is the richest animal manure in N-P-K but carries pathogens. Never apply uncomposted manure to vegetables. Hot composting (150°F+ for 6+ months) kills pathogens.

Making Aerated Manure Tea

1. Use fully composted chicken manure.
2. Steep in water with constant aeration (aquarium pump + tubing) to culture aerobic bacteria.
3. Brew 24–48 hours; use immediately.
4. Dilute to weak tea color; apply freely.

Why Aeration Matters

Anaerobic tea breeds pathogens and smells foul. Aerobic tea multiplies beneficial microbes that enhance soil fertility and suppress disease. Pure Barnyard's "Cock-a-Doodle-Doo" granular poultry litter is a commercial alternative.

Resources

Marion Owen's guide (plantea.com/manure.htm) details manure comparisons and tea brewing. MSDS for commercial products available at Pure Barnyard.