Rabbit poop, often affectionately referred to as “bunny berries,” is considered an excellent and balanced organic fertilizer for grass and lawns. Unlike many other animal wastes, it is well-suited for direct application to turf without the risks associated with hotter manures. The pelleted form is convenient for scattering, providing a gentle, slow-release nutrient boost that encourages healthy, sustained lawn growth. This natural byproduct nourishes the lawn and improves soil structure as it breaks down over time.
Nutrient Profile and Cold Manure Status
Rabbit manure is highly valued because its nutrient composition is relatively concentrated yet gentle, making it an ideal amendment for turfgrass. The typical nutrient profile, expressed as the Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium (N-P-K) ratio, is approximately 2.4% nitrogen, 1.4% phosphorus, and 0.6% potassium. This ratio is significantly higher in nitrogen compared to many livestock manures, such as cow dung, which often contains only about 0.4% nitrogen. The moderate levels of phosphorus and potassium support strong root development and overall plant resilience.
The most beneficial characteristic for lawn application is its classification as a “cold manure,” meaning it does not generate the high heat during decomposition that can damage or “burn” grass and plant roots. This low-heat property eliminates the requirement for composting or aging before it can be spread on a lawn. Manures from animals like chickens or horses are considered “hot” and must be carefully composted to reduce nitrogen concentration and prevent phytotoxicity, but rabbit pellets can be applied fresh.
The manure’s distinct, small, dry, and pelleted form provides an excellent structure for a slow-release fertilizer. These individual pellets decompose gradually, releasing their nutrients over an extended period rather than all at once. This slow breakdown prevents a sudden flush of growth and helps to maintain consistent soil fertility, which is optimal for a healthy, dense turf. The pellets also contribute organic matter to the soil, improving its ability to retain moisture and promoting a beneficial microbial environment.
Methods for Application on Grass
There are two primary methods for applying rabbit manure to a lawn, each offering a different rate of nutrient delivery.
Direct Application
The simplest approach is scattering the dry pellets across the turf as a top dressing. Because the pellets are dry and retain their shape, they are easy to broadcast by hand or with a standard fertilizer spreader, ensuring an even distribution over the lawn area. For general application, a light scattering is best, aiming for coverage that is barely visible across the surface to avoid clumping. The pellets should be watered in immediately after application to help them settle and begin the breakdown process. This method acts as a long-term, slow-release feeding, with nutrients gradually leaching into the root zone. Reapplying a light top dressing every six to eight weeks during the growing season can sustain a consistent nutrient supply.
Manure Tea
The second method involves creating a liquid feed called Manure Tea, which provides a faster nutrient boost. This tea is made by steeping the pellets in water, typically using a ratio of about one part manure to five parts water. The mixture should steep for between 24 hours and four days, stirring occasionally, to extract the soluble nutrients. The resulting concentrated liquid is then diluted to the color of weak iced tea before being applied to the lawn using a watering can or hose-end sprayer. Liquid application allows for rapid nutrient absorption by the grass, making it ideal for targeting areas that need a quick green-up or recovery.
Safety and Handling Considerations
While rabbit manure is generally safe and easy to handle, a few precautions are sensible, particularly regarding the source of the material. Manure collected from rabbits fed primarily on hay may contain viable weed seeds that pass through the digestive tract intact. Sourcing manure from rabbits fed a high-quality, pelleted diet can help minimize the introduction of unwanted lawn weeds.
It is important to use only manure collected from healthy, domestic pet or farm rabbits. Although rabbit manure has a low risk of carrying human pathogens, basic hygiene is advised. Always wear gloves when handling the manure and wash hands thoroughly after application.
For storage, rabbit manure should be kept in a dry, covered container to preserve its nutrient content and prevent the growth of mold or fungus. Applying the manure to the lawn right before a heavy rain is generally not recommended, as it can lead to nutrient runoff.