Partners' Capital (Ferrellgas Declared Cash Distribution) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2011
Ferrell Companies [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid to partners	$ 10,040
FCI Trading Corp. [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid to partners	98
Ferrell Propane, Inc. [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid to partners	26
James E. Ferrell [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid to partners	2,179
General Partner [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid to partners	$ 384