What is the Difference Between Humus and Manure

Soil fertility is the soil’s ability to grow plants. It can be influenced by factors like soil strength, nutrient amount, water holding, and pH level. Humus and manure are two substances that increase soil fertility.

What is the difference between humus and manure? Humus is fully decomposed organic matter, whereas manure is fresh animal feces, often mixed with bedding materials like straw or sawdust.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Humus  
      – Definition, Features 
2. What is Manure
      – Definition, Features 
3. Similarities Between Humus and Manure
      – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Humus and Manure
      – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Humus and Manure
      – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Humus, Manure, Soil

What is Humus

Humus, the darker organic matter that is found in soil, is a key element for plant growth and also for the overall health of the soil. It is the last stage of decomposition product in a long process with the participation of microorganisms that are able to digest plant and animal residues.

A major function of humus is to improve the structure of the soil. It facilitates the formation of a crumbly texture that promotes better aeration and water infiltration. This helps in plant root development because oxygen and water are essential for their growth. Humus also helps to reduce soil compaction, which can limit root growth and nutrient absorption.

Humus is the soil with the highest nutrient-holding capacity. Moreover, humus is first negatively charged, which means it attracts positively charged ions like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Therefore, the leaching of nutrients is controlled, and the plants will get all the nutrients they require for growth. Humus is also used as a slow-release fertilizer that releases nutrients at a steady pace over a long period of time to satisfy the needs of crops.

What is Manure

Manure is fresh or partially decomposed animal waste. It adds organic matter to the soil, which improves its structure and water-holding capacity. As a result of this, plants gain better nutrients and root growth. Manure is a good and green way to feed plants. It also supplies the natural balance the plant needs. This may lead to the utilization of fewer chemical fertilizers, which in turn reduces the environmental impacts.

Manure contains beneficial microorganisms that decompose organic matter in the ground. This is advantageous to the soil and results in an increase in the fertility of the soil.

An increase in manures also creates better soil structuring and reduces soil erosion, as an increase in organic matter content in manure can mobilize the soil particles and bind them.

Similarities Between Humus and Manure

1. Both humus and manure are composed of organic matter.
2. They are rich in essential nutrients.
3. Moreover, both contribute to improving soil structure.
4. They support the growth and activity of beneficial soil microorganisms.
5. Both promote plant health.
6. In addition, both help reduce soil erosion.

Difference Between Humus and Manure

Definition

• Humus is fully decomposed organic matter, dark and crumbly in texture, while manure is fresh or partially decomposed animal waste, often containing recognizable plant material. 

Impact on Soil Structure

• Manure can improve soil structure but to a lesser extent than humus.

Cost

• Humus is generally more expensive than manure.

Application to Soil

• Humus can be applied directly to the soil at any time of the year, but manure may need to be composted or aged before application to reduce the risk of plant damage.

Conclusion

Humus is the fully decomposed organic matter in the soil, which is rich in nutrients and improves soil structure. Manure is animal waste that can be used as a fertilizer, but it’s less decomposed than humus. Both are essential for soil health, but humus is the end-product of organic matter decomposition.

FAQ: Humus and Manure

1. Is humus a fertilizer?

Yes, humus is a natural fertilizer. It’s a dark, organic matter formed from decomposed plant and animal material. Humus facilitates the formation of a crumbly texture that promotes better aeration and water infiltration. 

2. What is humus made of?

Humus is a dark, organic matter in the soil. It is formed by the decomposition of plant and animal matter. Humus is rich in nutrients and improves soil structure, making it ideal for plant growth.

3. Can plants grow in humus?

Yes, plants can grow in humus. Humus is a dark, organic matter in soil that is rich in nutrients. It provides a healthy environment for plant roots to grow and absorb essential minerals and water.

4. What are the three types of humus?

Three types of humus are mor, moder, and mull. Mor is the least decomposed, characterized by a thick layer of undecomposed litter. Moder is partially decomposed, with a distinct litter layer and humus layer. Mull is the most decomposed, with a dark, crumbly texture and no visible plant remains.

5. What are the benefits of humus in soil?

Humus improves soil structure, increases water retention, and enhances nutrient availability. It also promotes healthy microbial activity, which leads to better plant growth and overall soil fertility.

Reference:

1. “Humus“. National Geographic – Education. 
2. “Manure.” Encyclopedia Britannica.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Soil Horizons” By Original: Wilsonbiggs Vector: EssensStrassen – Soils – USD Gov. (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Hestemøj” By Malene Thyssen – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia