Chapter 18 - Direct Application to Fields

The most efficient method of handling poultry litter is to directly apply it to fields as it is being removed from the house. This reduces labor, expense and potential environmental problems. This requires cleanout when weather and crop conditions are favorable for applying litter. For cropland, this time will be in the spring before the crop is planted, or in the fall after the crop has been harvested if a small grain or cover crop is to be planted. Application of poultry litter to cropland during the winter should be avoided because the efficient use of nutrients will be low and the potential for water contamination is increased.

Pasture and hay crops such as tall fescue and other grasses offer more times during the year for applying poultry litter. Grasses are efficient users of nitrogen and respond well to applications of poultry litter. In the case of fescue and other cool season grasses, poultry litter can be safely applied from March to November. However, it is recommended that no more than four tons per acre be used each year due to potential livestock problems. Summer annual grasses such as millet and sudangrass can benefit from applications of poultry litter about anytime between April and September. Poultry litter can also be used with wheat and other small grains either before planting in the fall or as spring topdressing.