|
Chesley, Ontario | The pH of the manure is only a very poor indicator of what impact it will have on soil pH. The manure is made up of some alkaline materials, as well as a lot of organic matter that will release organic acids as it breaks down, and a bunch of ammonium that will release acidity as it nitrifies. In fact, it occurs to me that the increase in the pH you have noticed might be due to an increase in the ammonium content. The exception to this is layer manure, where there can be a large amount of oyster shell or calcium carbonate in the manure from spilled feed. 3600 pounds of dry matter that is mostly not lime will likely have minimal impact on soil pH, and if it does raise pH it will be over a number of years. Follow a regular soil testing program, and you should get lots of advance notice of any problems.
How high is too high? Unless you are trying to grow blueberries, anything under 8 is OK. Those of you with pH's in the high sevens who feel hard done by should go visit some of the areas with pH in the fours. Maybe then you will realize you have the best part of the deal! | |
|
Manure PH
