estiércoles

Estiércoles are the solid or semi-liquid excrement produced by farm animals and used as fertilizer in agriculture. They come from cattle, pigs, horses, sheep, and poultry, among others. Estiércoles can be stored as piles, spread directly on fields, or applied as slurry. They are valued for adding organic matter and plant nutrients to soils and for improving soil structure and fertility.

The composition and properties of estiércoles vary with animal species, diet, and management practices. They are generally rich in organic matter and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with trace elements and microbial communities. Fresh estiércoles contain undigested feed and bedding materials; aging or composting alters their nutrient availability, reduces odor, and lowers pathogen and weed seed content.

Applications and handling follow practical and regulatory considerations. Estiércoles may be spread on arable land or pastures using manure spreaders, or applied as slurry with appropriate equipment. Incorporation into soil or application during non-growing periods helps minimize nutrient losses through volatilization. Composting or aging estiércoles improves stability and reduces odors, while also reducing pathogen risk.

Environmental and health considerations are central to their use. Improper storage or over-application can lead to nitrate leaching into groundwater and emissions of methane or nitrous oxide during decomposition. Regulations in many regions govern storage, handling, and timing of application to protect water quality. Practices such as anaerobic digestion or windrow composting can mitigate environmental impacts.

In diverse farming systems, estiércoles remain a traditional and widely used natural fertilizer. They are integral to organic farming and are often blended with other inputs to balance nutrient supply. The term estiércoles is the plural form of estiércol in Spanish.