Accounts And Notes Receivable, Net (Accounts And Notes Receivable) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2011
Accounts receivable pledged as collateral	$ 293,163	$ 112,509
Accounts receivable	3,826	51,104
Other	246	229
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(4,345)	(4,310)
Accounts and notes receivable, net	292,890	159,532
Ferrellgas, L.P. [Member]
Accounts receivable pledged as collateral	293,163	112,509
Accounts receivable	3,826	51,104
Other	246	229
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(4,345)	(4,310)
Accounts and notes receivable, net	$ 292,890	$ 159,532