Business Combinations (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2011	Jul. 31, 2010	Jul. 31, 2009
Aggregate value of distribution assets	$ 12,586,000	$ 45,114,000	$ 9,950,000
Number of transactions to acquire propane distribution assets	5	1	4
Cash payment for acquisition	7,300,000	36,500,000	2,700,000
Issuance of liabilities and other costs	2,400,000	5,500,000	1,800,000
Issuance of common unit, net of issuance cost	2,900,000	3,100,000	5,500,000
Ferrellgas, L.P. And Subsidiaries [Member]
Aggregate value of distribution assets	12,586,000	45,114,000	9,950,000
Number of transactions to acquire propane distribution assets	5	1	4
Cash payment for acquisition	7,300,000	36,500,000	2,700,000
Issuance of liabilities and other costs	2,400,000	5,500,000	1,800,000
Contribution of asset by parent	$ 2,900,000	$ 3,100,000	$ 5,500,000