Supplemental Financial Statement Information (Shipping And Handling Expenses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	$ 48,463	$ 47,126
Ferrellgas, L.P. And Subsidiaries [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	48,463	47,126
Operating Expense [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	43,788	42,284
Operating Expense [Member] | Ferrellgas, L.P. And Subsidiaries [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	43,788	42,284
Depreciation And Amortization Expense [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	1,584	1,481
Depreciation And Amortization Expense [Member] | Ferrellgas, L.P. And Subsidiaries [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	1,584	1,481
Equipment Lease Expense [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	3,091	3,361
Equipment Lease Expense [Member] | Ferrellgas, L.P. And Subsidiaries [Member]
Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Line Items]
Shipping and handling expenses	$ 3,091	$ 3,361