Rabbit manure is a highly valued organic fertilizer, often referred to as “cold” manure because it can be applied directly to plants without prior composting. This unique characteristic makes it an immediate and safe source of nutrients, unlike other manures that contain high nitrogen levels that can burn plant roots. The manure is typically found in a small, pelletized form, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (average N-P-K ratio around 2.4-1.4-0.6). It also provides beneficial micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and boron, which contribute to strong growth and overall plant health. Proper storage ensures its potency is preserved until needed for soil enrichment.
Initial Preparation Before Storage
Preparation begins with carefully collecting the rabbit pellets, separating them as much as possible from soiled bedding materials. Minimizing urine-soaked hay, straw, or wood shavings is the primary goal, as high moisture encourages anaerobic decomposition and mold growth during storage. Urine-soaked material should be set aside for composting, since its moisture and ammonia concentration can degrade the quality of the dry pellets.
After collection, the pellets require a drying period to significantly reduce moisture content. This step prevents the development of mold or fungus during long-term storage. Spread the collected pellets in a thin layer on a screen or tarp in a dry, well-ventilated area for two to three days to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Reducing moisture prevents the pellets from breaking down prematurely, preserving their structure and nutrient profile.
Methods for Long-Term Storage
Once the rabbit pellets are sufficiently dry, they can be preserved using two primary methods: dry storage for direct use or incorporation into a composting system. Dry storage is the simplest approach, capitalizing on the manure’s low moisture and pelletized form. This method involves placing the dried pellets into containers that allow for continued air exchange, such as burlap sacks, woven feed bags, or plastic bins with drilled ventilation holes.
The chosen storage container should be kept in a cool, dry location, such as a shed, garage, or barn. Preventing the re-wetting of the manure is important, as moisture triggers decomposition and can lead to clumping or mold growth. When stored dry, the pellets retain their form and nutrient value almost indefinitely, allowing the gardener to stockpile fertilizer for future seasons.
Alternatively, the manure can be integrated into a traditional composting system, which transforms the pellets into a finely textured soil amendment. Adding it to a compost pile can significantly boost the overall nitrogen content of the finished product. Rabbit manure acts as a powerful nitrogen activator, helping to break down carbon-rich “brown” materials such as dry leaves and wood shavings. For composting, the manure is layered with equal amounts of brown material, moistened slightly, and turned regularly to ensure aerobic decomposition.
Applying Stored Rabbit Manure
The stored, dry pellets can be applied directly to the garden without the risk of burning plants. A common technique is side dressing, where a handful of pellets is sprinkled around the base of established plants, allowing nutrients to slowly release into the soil with each watering. The pellets can also be top-dressed onto garden beds and lightly worked into the topsoil before planting to enrich the entire area.
Another effective method is creating a liquid fertilizer, often called “manure tea” or “bunny brew,” by soaking the pellets in water. The typical ratio is one part manure to five parts water; after steeping for a day or two, the resulting nutrient-dense liquid should be diluted to the color of weak tea before use. This liquid feed provides a quick nutrient boost, and the leftover solids can be added to the garden or compost pile. The pellets also serve as a valuable addition to potting mixes and raised beds when blended with soil before transplanting.