Rabbit droppings, often called “bunny berries” or “rabbit gold,” are a valuable addition to any garden or small farm. This material is celebrated by organic gardeners as a highly effective soil amendment and fertilizer. The small, dry pellets are rich in nutrients and organic matter, confirming that rabbit poop is one of the best forms of natural fertilizer available. This makes the pellets excellent for improving both soil health and plant vitality.
Nutritional Makeup: The “Cold Manure” Advantage
Rabbit manure is classified as “cold manure” because it does not generate high heat during decomposition and has a low ammonia content. This composition allows nutrients to be released gradually without the risk of “burning” or damaging plant roots and foliage. Fresh rabbit manure is safe to use directly on plants, unlike “hot” manures from livestock like chickens or horses, which require extensive aging or composting.
The nutrient profile is a significant reason for its value, with an average N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) ratio often cited near 2.4-1.4-0.6. This ratio indicates a high nitrogen content, promoting lush, green vegetative growth. Phosphorus supports strong root development and flower production, while potassium assists in overall plant health and disease resistance. The pellets also provide beneficial micronutrients beyond the primary macronutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, manganese, and zinc.
Direct Application and Soil Incorporation
The unique “cold” nature of the pellets means they can be applied to the garden immediately without processing. This provides a slow-release feeding mechanism as the pellets naturally break down. Gardeners can use side dressing, which involves sprinkling the pellets around the base of established plants, avoiding direct contact with the main stem.
For preparing a new garden bed, a layer of rabbit pellets can be spread across the soil surface and then lightly tilled or raked into the top four to six inches. This introduces organic matter and nutrients directly into the root zone before planting. While the manure is considered low-risk for transmitting human pathogens, it is recommended practice to wear gloves when handling any manure and to avoid using material from visibly ill rabbits.
Creating Fertilizer Tea and Composting
An alternative method for delivering nutrients is extracting them into a liquid form known as “manure tea” or “bunny brew.” To create this concentrated liquid fertilizer, steep the pellets in water. A common ratio is one part manure to five parts non-chlorinated water, allowing the mixture to steep for three to seven days. The resulting liquid can be diluted and applied directly to the soil for immediate root absorption or used as a foliar spray to feed plants.
For large-scale or long-term soil improvement, the pellets can be incorporated into a traditional compost pile. Rabbit manure acts as a powerful nitrogen-rich “green” material and should be balanced with carbon-rich “brown” materials like straw or dried leaves. This combination helps the pile achieve the optimal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio for efficient decomposition. Composting the manure creates a bulk material excellent for improving soil structure and providing a stable, long-lasting soil amendment.