Alpaca manure — affectionately called “beans” — is one of the best animal manures for gardens. And because alpacas use communal dung piles, it’s easy to collect.
Why gardeners love it
- Low odor and pelleted, so it’s easy to handle and spread.
- Lower in organic matter that burns plants than many fresh manures, so many gardeners apply small amounts directly.
- Good levels of nitrogen and potassium, plus phosphorus and organic matter that improves soil structure and water retention.
- Weed seeds are fewer than in horse manure, because alpacas digest forage thoroughly (though some do pass through).
Fresh or composted?
| Fresh beans | Composted | |
|---|---|---|
| Ease | Spread directly, sparingly | Takes weeks to months |
| Weed seeds & parasite eggs | May be present | Reduced by hot composting |
| Best for | Ornamentals, lawns, top-dressing beds | Vegetable gardens, seed beds |
For vegetable gardens, compost alpaca manure hot (130–160°F / 55–70°C for several days, turning regularly) or apply it well before harvest, following food-safety guidance for manure use.
How to use
- Top-dress beds with a thin layer and scratch it in.
- Mix into compost to speed decomposition.
- Manure tea: soak a bag of beans in a bucket of water for a few days, dilute until it looks like weak tea, and water plants.
- Spread on pasture only after composting to avoid spreading worm eggs to grazing areas. See pasture management.
Collecting and selling
Clean dung piles twice a week with a rake, scoop or lawn vacuum; this also controls flies and parasites. Many farms sell bagged beans, compost and “tea” at the farm gate — a simple, popular product.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put alpaca manure directly on my garden? Many gardeners do in small amounts; composting is safer for vegetables and kills weed seeds.
Does alpaca manure smell? Very little compared with most livestock manures.
Keep reading
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a veterinarian who has examined your animals. Camelid medicine uses many drugs “extra-label”, so dosing must come from your vet. In an emergency, call your vet first. Read our disclaimer · How we write and review content.