Deep litter question

[Kaesi2020]

Hi everyone, my question is about the deep litter method. Our enclosed run is dirt floor with layers of organic material, mostly pine shavings and grass. The chickens turn it all over daily as they scratch. Other than add a fresh thin layer once a week or two, I have not done much else. It does not smell. We started this back at the end of May. Should we prepare to do anything anytime soon or just continue to add layers and let the process happen? So far, it has been extremely low maintenance. Thank you

 

[igorsMistress]

Hi there. Unless you think it's getting too high in the run, I wouldn't change anything. Eventually you may need to clear some out but until you feel like you do, you don't. As long as it doesn't smell or draw flies you're good.

 

[AppleMomma65]

Hi - I’m new to the DLM too. It’s been very warm but very dry here in N. WI so I put my hose on “shower” and wet the coop and run down - I read somewhere that some moisture is needed to get the compost active. Coop still smells good.

 

[U_Stormcrow]

So, this post is bragging?

It sounds like your set up is performing perfectly. No, no need to do anything extra currently.

Keep at it till the height becomes an issue, or they can't turn it over fast enough to keep it actively breaking down, or some accident of water makes it a sodden mess.

 

[Sally PB]

In other words, it looks like it's going great! Good job!

Not only that, but whatever you do take out will be great on a compost pile or garden, or mulch under plants.

And I really like the roost you have in there.

 

[3KillerBs]

Since it's working so well you can just keep on doing what you're doing until either the pile gets inconveniently tall or you want some compost for your garden.

 

[Kaesi2020]

Thanks everyone. Deep litter has been so convenient and low maintenance that I think sometimes I'm doing something wrong. I'm going to also try adding more varied shavings in there.

 

[aart]

mostly pine shavings and grass

Green grass or dried?
Is there any moisture in there?

 

[Kaesi2020]

Green grass or dried?
Is there any moisture in there?

Green grass, usually fresh cut so some moisture. The run is covered but rain tends to enter the sides which seems to help. it's been dry here lately though so perhaps I need to moisten it up.