In continuation with our subject on different types of natural manures, Cow dung is the most commonly available manure.
Cow dung manure, preferably desi cow, is replete with millions of varied range of micro organisms that r very essential for plants to survive and thrive.
Cow dung should be used after aging of 6 months- 1 year to prevent root rotting and spread of disease causing nematodes. Old and dry cow dung is rich in NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) as well as lot of micronutrients essential for plant growth.
It’s application to plants depends on each plant’s nutrition requirement, seasonal conditions and flowering and fruiting season. Generally, cow dung can applied to all plants twice a year ie in February and September. Then, depending on each plant’s flowering and fruiting season, more can be added to nourish it’s increased requirement.
Cow dung also acts as a pest repellent against various pests and boosts the plants immunity to fight diseases.
Dry cow dung compost can be soaked for a few days and liquid solution can be sprayed as foliar spray all over the plant in very dilute portion as nutrition as well as pest repellent.