MANURE. 211 



itself. They should never be tlirown away, however, 

 as they contain lime, iron and minute, though appre- 

 ciable quantities of alkalies, soda usually predomi- 

 nating. It is also quite possible that they contain 

 minute traces of phosphates, though in no analysis 

 with which I have met is it mentioned. "Where the 

 coal has been burned at a high temperature the 

 alkali is in general reduced, and the metal volatilized. 



The dung and nrine of animals forms a powerful 

 manure. The solid excrements of all these are best 

 mixed with some absorbent, as plaster, charcoal, 

 burnt clay, etc. ; or thoroughly decomposed in con- 

 tact wdth vegetable matter, as straw, leaves, etc. 

 The liquid and soluble portion may be used as liquid 

 manure, or may be poured over the fermenting dung 

 heap. 



The dung of birds, as hens, pigeons, etc., and also 

 guano, form a very convenient and most excellent top 

 dressing for vine borders, but are better wdien applied 

 as liquid manure during the growing season. 



An excellent manure may be made as follows: 

 Sink a hole in any convenient part of the premises 

 and fill up w^th saw-dust. On this pour all the 

 urine that can be obtained from time to time, and 

 keep closely covered with a broad cover. 



When sufficient has been added, or when the smell 

 becomes offensive, remove the cover and place a pile 



