How to Make Organic Composted Horse Manure

Pile your existing manure at least 3 feet high. A pile approximately 6 to 7 feet square works best for composting, but you can start with a pile 3 feet in height if you need to. A pile less than 3 feet in height will not generate the heat necessary to kill pathogens and start the composting process.

Turn the pile on a regular basis using a tractor. If you do not have access to a tractor, insert a few 5-foot PVC pipes to act as chimneys and allow the heat inside the pile to dissipate while increasing airflow. If you know you will not be able to turn the pile with a tractor, insert the PVC pipes as you build the manure pile. Drill holes in the piping to increase airflow.

Monitor the temperature in your compost pile using a special compost thermometer. These thermometers are available at most garden supply centers. The pile should start out at a relatively low temperature, approximately 50 to 110 degrees F. As the composting process starts to work, the temperature should rise to a high of 110 to 160 degrees, then slowly drop to the ambient temperature.

Cover the pile with a tarp or piece of plastic to prevent it from getting too wet. Nail or staple a board to the front of the plastic or tarp to make it easier to move back and forth as needed. Keep the pile covered during rainy weather, but add water as needed when the weather is dry.

Check the compost pile regularly and examine the material each time you turn the pile. The finished compost should have a rich earthy smell.