Horse Manure

I've just got hold of a small load of manure, but on arrival it was obviously quite fresh.  How long will it take to rot down, I wonder, and am I being too hopeful that it could be ready for use in April?  Maybe I could hasten the process?  Any tips gratefully received!

I've just got hold of a small load of manure, but on arrival it was obviously quite fresh.  How long will it take to rot down, I wonder, and am I being too hopeful that it could be ready for use in April?  Maybe I could hasten the process?  Any tips gratefully received!

Pile it up, cover it in a thin layer of compost and some dark plastic (old compost bag inside out will do) and then in April/May, I would personally cut an X into the plastic and plant a couple of pumpkin, courgette or squash plants into it.  They will love it!  Then, this time next year you can spread it anywhere as it will no longer look fresh any more.

Pile it up, cover it in a thin layer of compost and some dark plastic (old compost bag inside out will do) and then in April/May, I would personally cut an X into the plastic and plant a couple of pumpkin, courgette or squash plants into it.  They will love it!  Then, this time next year you can spread it anywhere as it will no longer look fresh any more.

That's a great tip, thank you!