314 SOILS AND MANURES 



liquid which would otherwise escape and a considerable 

 saving can often be effected in this way. 



Dried Leaves and Ferns. The composition of dried 

 leaves and ferns has been given (p. 304). They are 

 sometimes employed as litter, but have no great power 

 of absorption and generally produce manure of some- 

 what inferior quality, a large part of the most valuable 

 fertilising matter being lost. 



Other Litters. Besides those mentioned above, a 

 variety of other substances, e.g., sawdust, tannery 

 refuse, and even ordinary loam ar.e sometimes used. 

 Sawdust is a good absorbent, but decomposes very slowly, 

 and is itself of little value. Loam is cheap and handy, 

 but requires to be dried. It is heavy to handle, does 

 not undergo fermentation, and is very dirty. Materials 

 of this kind are only suitable for use in emergency. 



Quantity of Litter. In ordinary practice the quantity 

 of litter is very roughly apportioned, yet it is evident 

 that it must exercise a considerable influence on the 

 character of the resulting manure. If the litter be 

 stinted much of the liquid may escape absorption arid 

 be lost. On the other hand, if excess is used the manure 

 may be too dry, will be liable to loss during fermentation, 

 and will be generally of inferior quality. There is some 

 difference of opinion as to the most suitable quantity 

 to be used under different circumstances. Ordinarily it 

 varies from about 5 to 10 Ibs. per head per day, for horses 

 and cattle. In view of the more watery character of the 

 excreta, perhaps more should be allowed for the latter than 

 for the former. 



FERMENTATION. 



The gradual conversion of the mixture of litter and 

 animal excreta commonly called " long or fresh " manure 



