Deep litter method ??

[Coopnrun]

I've looked around the forum but still not sure where to ask this question so here goes.

Where can I find out about the Deep Litter Method?

I searched using that title and onLt found post discussing various aspects of the method. So what is it, how do I do it, what's involved?

I have a 4x4 coop and building a 4x15 run.
The coop has a Formica floor, thought it would be easy to scrap out and was very cheep. So can I use the DL method in it?

The run will be dirt so should I do the DL method there?

All help appreciated, chickens will be purchased when run finished planning on 6 laying hens.

 

[ashlierami]

Here's an article explaining the DLM.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...st-way-to-deal-with-chicken-litter-dlm.47740/

 

[aart]

Here's an article explaining the DLM.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...st-way-to-deal-with-chicken-litter-dlm.47740/

That's obsolete and not a true composting DLM.....more like deep bedding.
DB vs DL: http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1075545/can-i-do-deep-litter-method-with-this-coop#post_16440037

This is deep litter:
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1037998/muddy-run-help-please#post_16017992

The run will be dirt so should I do the DL method there?

Welcome Back!
It's fine line and there are many variables to how and how well it will work.
I would not try DLM in a 4x4 coop.....but in the run, it's the best IMO.

There are tons of threads on DLM here, read a lot and carefully weigh the info.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/search/17735054/?q=deep+litter&t=post&o=relevance&c[title_only]=1

 

[janz70]

This is deep litter:
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1037998/muddy-run-help-please#post_16017992
the link has been moved?????????????

Ive tried deep litter with straw but never managed it, as the litter starts to smell of ammonia and the poop just crusts on the top - it was a good foot deep but flattens down to nothing.

Possible straw is not good for DLM but there was tonnes of browns compared to the poop (greens) so it should have been ok but just didnt seem to start to decompose

 

[aart]

Possible straw is not good for DLM but there was tonnes of browns compared to the poop (greens) so it should have been ok but just didnt seem to start to decompose

Straw is OK as one of the ingredients but need a mix of browns.
Link worked fine for me.

 

[janz70]

What do you suggest to go in with straw?

 

[aart]

What do you suggest to go in with straw?

Aged ramial wood chippings will give a good mix of sizes of wood.

 

[lazy gardener]

Agreed with aart. 4 x 4 is simply too small for DL in the coop. And the run should be a walk in style run, or at least 4' tall IMO in order to successfully manage a DL. It can be done with less height, but I prefer a walk in style coop AND RUN to save my back.

 

[janz70]

does it need to be in contact with the dirt floor as my converted shed has a wooden floor, can I just add some dirt or maybe some of my compost pile? also have plenty of leaves come autumn

 

[Army Chicken]

I've looked around the forum but still not sure where to ask this question so here goes.

Where can I find out about the Deep Litter Method?

I searched using that title and onLt found post discussing various aspects of the method. So what is it, how do I do it, what's involved?

I have a 4x4 coop and building a 4x15 run.
The coop has a Formica floor, thought it would be easy to scrap out and was very cheep. So can I use the DL method in it?

The run will be dirt so should I do the DL method there?

All help appreciated, chickens will be purchased when run finished planning on 6 laying hens.

I use HEMP Bedding you can find ton of information on youtube about it. here is the link that I get mine from. http://www.newcountryorganics.com/s...yer-feed/hemp-bedding-5-cu-ft-bag-30-lbs.html