Is this well rotted?

mattgarden

I bought this manure yesterday from a stables to go under my new turf. I am no expert but was assured it was well rotted. I'm dubious now I've emptied a bag. Can anyone advise?

I read that if it doesn't smell it's well rotted. There's only a slight smell when close to it. 

I'm worried it will cause problems under my new turf. 

AnniD

I presume you are going to dig it in prior to raking, levelling etc., and then laying the turf. It's difficult to tell from the photo, and l am no manure expert (!). I think the main problem would be that it would make the grass grow very lush and also lead to the lawn sinking. Sorry l can't help you more, but there are lawn experts here somewhere 

Borderline

That is manure but not 'well rotted' manure. Not suitable if you are placing it onto plant beds. They could scorch your plants. Leave it there. If it's raining, you may need to cover it up. It's too damp to be having that mixed in with your soil.

You are better off getting topsoil to use underneath your soil. It's all about waiting for the right time. With damp and cold weather, you can't really dig and mix. Once it gets warmer, think about getting topsoil, then mixing with some 'rotted' manure. 

Perki

I agree with Borderline , looks closer to fresh than well rotted. 

[Deleted User]

The user and all related content has been deleted.

AnniD

I knew there would be some poo experts on here ! 

mattgarden

Blooming Facebook marketplace sales!!

Thanks everyone. So I can't use it under my lawn... I'll go to buy some compost. How long till I can use this in my beds? Will it rot in the bags they are in? Or best a compost bin? 

BobTheGardener

If you already have a compost heap, I would add it to that, either mix in or a little at a time when you add more stuff - raw manure is a wonderful compost accelerent and you should have useable stuff in under 6 months.  It will rot in the bags but will take longer, maybe a year or more.