Deep Litter Method - Michigan

[Bantam bell Wood]

I have a very similar setup, but I do harvest some of the litter in the spring for my gardens. I'm not getting taller, but somehow, my head is closer to the cross pieces in the roof of my run. I'll dig out about 4-6 inches of really good compost in a few weeks!

The benefit of the compost seems great!

 

[Ted Brown]

I’m new to keeping chickens. I like the idea of the leaves, but especially the needles in the (deep litter) run to maintain cleanliness. Do you think the needles are an extra help or just part and parcel to the deep litter?

Part & parcel, breaks down much the same as leaves.

 

[saysfaa]

... Do you think the needles are an extra help or just part and parcel to the deep litter?...

There is benefit to having different textures in the bedding or litter. Not a lot, usually, but enough to go to at least a little effort for it.

 

[Bantam bell Wood]

There is benefit to having different textures in the bedding or litter. Not a lot, usually, but enough to go to at least a little effort for it.

Thank you!

 

[Ted Brown]

There is benefit to having different textures in the bedding or litter. Not a lot, usually, but enough to go to at least a little effort for it.

For DLM not only texture but size as well.

aart used to recommend "ramial mulch" (not certain of spelling) that was a mix of wood chip sizes. Rational was that this allowed oxygen to more easily penetrate and encourage decomposition.