Human hair, rich in nitrogen, sulfur, carbon, and 20 essential plant nutrients, is one of nature’s most nitrogen-dense organic materials. Composed mainly of proteins, it decomposes slowly in the atmosphere but breaks down within months in soil due to moisture and keratinolytic fungi found in manure, sewage, and soil. Historically, Chinese agriculture utilized hair mixed with cattle excrement for winter compost. In India, hair has been used directly as fertilizer for many fruit and vegetable crops and in making organic manures. Recent studies confirm that hair enriches the soil, providing vital nutrients for two to three cropping seasons, making it a sustainable option for organic farming and horticulture.
