FARMYARD MANURE. 



17 



ence of the weather. The entire crude loss which this experi- 

 mental heap sustained in the course of time was ascertained by 

 periodical weighings on the weighbridge. Simultaneously with 

 these weighings the manure was submitted to analysis, and thus 

 I was enabled not only to determine from time to time the loss 

 in weight which the experimental heap sustained in keeping, but 

 also to ascertain which constituents were affected by this loss, 

 and in which relative proportions. The results of these perio- 

 dical weighings and analyses are incorporated in the following 

 table. 



TABLE showing Composition of the Whole Heap : Fresh Farmyard Manure. 

 Expressed in Ibs. 



It will be remarked that in the first experimental period the 

 fermentation of the dung, as might have been expected, pro- 

 ceeded most rapidly, but that, notwithstanding, very little nitrogen 

 was dissipated in the form of volatile ammonia ; and that on the 

 whole the loss which the manure sustained was inconsiderable 

 when compared with the enormous waste to which it was subject 

 in the subsequent warmer and more rainy seasons of the year. 

 Thus we find at the end of April very nearly the same amount 

 of nitrogen which is c-ontained in the fresh ; whereas, at. the end 



C 



