Quick facts
Keep the following in mind when thinking about manure application timing.
- Do not apply in winter in Minnesota.
- Apply in fall only after soil temperatures are below 50°F, and not on coarse-textured soil.
- Spring or summer are the best times to apply manure in Minnesota.
When is the best time to apply manure?
That depends on the logistics of each farm, weather, and soil conditions. It is also influenced by what risks you are willing to take. Those risks include:
- losing nutrients if the manure is applied too early
- running out of storage for the manure
- reducing time for nutrients to release if the manure is applied too late
- having a wet and/or cold spring which could delay manure application and then planting.
Pros
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Manure is available closer to when a growing crop will begin using the nutrients.
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The chance of nutrient losses is lower.
Cons
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Manure with high organic matter may have less time to break down and nitrogen release may be slower than expected.
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If soil conditions are poor, delaying manure application may further delay planting.
Recommendations
Wait until all snowmelt has occurred and the soil is completely thawed. Avoid applying on wet soil to reduce compaction.
Pros
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Can apply manure directly to a growing crop and reduce nutrient losses.
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Gives farmers another window of opportunity for applying manure.
Cons
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Need specialized equipment.
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May not be ideal for timing of livestock operations or solid manures.
Recommendations
Inject or incorporate manure between rows of growing crops as soon as possible to maximize nutrient value.
Pro
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Manure with high organic matter may have more time to break down.
Con
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There is more time for nutrient loss, especially if soils are warm.
Recommendations
Apply after soil temperatures are below 50°F but before the soil is frozen. This will slow down conversion of nitrogen to forms that are easily lost. Do not apply in the fall on coarse-textured soils.
Pro
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Ground is frozen, so compaction is minimized.
Cons
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Nutrients can’t soak into frozen soil; potential for loss is extremely high.
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The chance for visible runoff from fields is highest for winter applications.
Recommendations
Do not apply in winter. If an emergency arises, apply manure at the lowest necessary rate, choose fields with little slope, maintain all required setbacks from waterways, and avoid applying right before a large snowmelt.
Reviewed in 2018