Short answer: No. Manure is animal waste mixed with bedding such as straw or sawdust. Compost is organic matter that has been fully decomposed. Both improve soil, but manure must be composted before use.
What manure actually is
Fresh manure is rich in nitrogen and microbes. When mixed with bedding, it becomes an excellent raw material — but it’s still biologically active. Once stored in a heap and left to heat up and rot down, the mix begins to transform. This process — often called composting manure — is essential before it’s safe to use.
Why you should never use fresh manure
- Burns roots due to high ammonia and salts
- Contains pathogens and weed seeds
- Can cause nutrient lock-up as microbes rapidly consume nitrogen and oxygen
Allowing the manure to partially rot and mature lets microbes finish their fast “feast” phase. Nutrients are converted into stable, slow-release organic forms that plants and the soil food web can use safely.
“Well-rotted” vs “Composted” manure
- Well-rotted: Broken down over several months; darker, crumbly, low odour. Still biologically active.
- Composted: Fully processed under heat; stable, hygienic, and similar in texture to garden compost.
Both are fine for outdoor beds and allotments, but not for seed composts or potting mixes.
Nutrients and structure
Manure supplies short-term nutrients and some organic matter. Compost contains more stable carbon that improves soil texture and holds water. Used together, they give balanced fertility — nutrients from manure and structure from compost.
Different manures, different strengths
| Horse / Cow | Fibrous, straw-based | Good structure builder, low nutrients once aged |
| Pig / Chicken | High nutrient density | Must be well-composted before use; best applied to beds before planting |
| Sheep / Goat | Moderate nutrients | Easier to handle, good for general soil improvement |
Best uses
- Great for: vegetable beds, borders, improving heavy or poor soil
- Avoid for: container plants, seedlings, houseplants — too rich and biologically active
Apply in autumn or early spring and let worms and microbes integrate it before planting.
The soil food web benefit
Once manure has matured, the nitrogen, carbon, and trace minerals have been transferred into microbial biomass and humus-like material. That’s what feeds the soil food web sustainably, without shocking your plants.
In summary
Manure and compost are partners, not twins. Always let manure compost down before use — that’s when it stops competing with plants and starts working for them.
Learn how compost and manure build soil health →
Disclaimer.
Brand names such as Westland, SylvaGrow, RocketGro, Dalefoot, Carbon Gold, and others mentioned on this site are registered trademarks of their respective owners. MultipurposeCompost.co.uk includes these examples for informational and comparative purposes only and does not claim endorsement, affiliation, or suitability for any specific use. Gardeners and buyers should always check current product specifications and manufacturer guidance before purchase or application.
