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How long does it take for horse feces left on a trail or in a pasture to decay to usable compost material? Obviously, it depends on the type of day — sunny versus light or heavy rain?

Last Updated: June 18, 2010

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To have usable compost from horse manure, you should construct an appropriate compost area. If not properly composted, the seeds for weeds, hay, or grain are still viable and can result in those plants growing where you spread the manure. You can use the manure as fertilizer after about three to four days on the trail or pasture, but as mentioned, that could lead to unwanted plants in your garden. To promote drying, decomposition, and especially decreasing the parasite population in the manure, harrow your pastures regularly. Below is a very good article on managing horse manure and composting: equineextension.colostate.edu/content/view/170/57/.

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