What are the differences between commercial and manure fertilizer?
A. The most environmentally significant difference between hog manure and commercial fertilizer is the relative concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compounds. Hog manure typically averages about 15 lb/ton of nitrogen, 30 lb/ton of phosphorus, and 10 lb/ton potassium. In liquid systems, the nutrient values are slightly higher 30 lb/1,000 gal of nitrogen, 32 lb/1,000 gal of phosphorus, and 25 lb/1,000 gal of potassium. In either liquid or nonliquid systems, other nutrients and minerals which are essential for optimum plant growth are present in trace amounts. In commercial fertilizers, concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be much higher in concentration per ton. Furthermore, the trace elements and minerals found in manure are not present in commercial fertilizers. While manure is a good source of a wide range of nutrients, it can be bulky, wet, heavy, and difficult to manage. Producers must regularly collect, store, handle, treat, transport, and appl
