decided to build raised beds

[chilli_grower]

I have decided to build raised beds at the allotment during autumn/winter time.

8x4 probably.

I now have an unlimited supply of well rotted horse manure.

This muck is piled up outside, and is therefore obviously exposed to all weathers.

THe pile is around 8 foot tall, and at least 20 feet in diameter!

Question is, will this pile lose it's 'goodness' as the weather gets bad throughout winter?

Will the nutrients get washed away?

As I was planning on using a lot of this to build up the beds.

If the manure is likely to be fine, then should I wait and fill the beds next spring? Or fill them over winter?

THank you

[Bigmallly]

Cover the pile with tarp if you can get hold of some or spread it on the beds in Autumn.

[chilli_grower]

If I fill beds in autumn, wont the goodness just be washed away come spring?

As it all would have just sat in the beds doing nothing all over winter????

[Bigmallly]

Ok, I can see you're testing me CG............................Either cover the pile with tarp over the winter or fill the beds & cover the beds with tarp...........

[Bigmallly]

If I fill beds in autumn, wont the goodness just be washed away come spring?

Is there any goodness in manure? I tend to think there are nutrients in it but some believe it to be used as a soil conditioner.

[chris]

Trace as fat as I'm aware.

Can you cover the heap?

That said I've has 10tonnes left open all winter before. Come spring it had reduced by half in volume!


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[chilli_grower]

hmmm, Yes Mal, I believe it is known to be more of a 'soil conditioner'.

I cant cover the heap, as others use it as well.

I think I will fill beds, and then cover them....

Maybe!!!

[Bigmallly]

When I had lottie, I used to cover my beds with bubblewrap. It kept the bed moist & also helped warm it in spring.

[veggiechicken]

If this manure heap is at the allotments, and is for anyone to help themselves, take it quick - it may all be gone by next weekend Definitely don't rely on it being there until spring

[Bill HH]

I would worry about the nutrients, it makes a great soil conditioner and will encourage lots of worms. I would lay down a lot of cardboard and paper then the manure.

[bearded bloke]

I put a good 4" topping of donkey doo on my raised beds last Autumn,between the rain,frost & worms it has gone down to a nice crumb,with the added bonus of keeping some heat in the bed,win win I reckon

[chilli_grower]

VC - I wish the pile was at the allotments!

Unfortunately, it is several miles away. But easy access and LOADS of it!

I think I will fill beds late Autumn,

Thanks for the replies!