Average nutrients available in manure from different sources is listed here. Alabama researchers applied 10 tons per acre of broiler litter and 1 ton per acre of lime in the fall. The field was tilled and then planted to winter rye. They found 20 percent higher yields in the next summer's tomato crop as well as larger and earlier maturing fruit compared to a conventionally fertilized crop. An innovative Chatham County farmer brings his crop residues into the chicken coop.
Hens scratch through the residues, eat weed seeds and insects.
Their droppings add nitrogen which speeds decomposition. In comparison to chemical fertilizers, composts have relatively low amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, the total amount available over time is greater than that immediately available. Some nutrients are held in humus-like compounds which decompose very slowly so that their effects on soil continue for years after application. Composts can be made on-farm, but they are also available from municipal and commercial sources.