Diatomaceous Earth in the coop litter?

[chickendude]

I have read many posts here about people putting DE in the litter in their coop. I have a 5 foot wide and 4 foot deep coop and have 2 to 3 inches of pine shavings. Can any one tell me how much I need to spread on top of the shavings to control flies and other pests?

 

[LarryPQ]

I think everyone says little "coffee can" for 20 sq feet. Will try to find the recent thread...

I used two coffee cups worth for my 10 by 20 yesterday.

 

[ColoradoMike]

That sounds like a lot, but then again, I'm a newb.

I use maybe 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup for my 4x4 coop...

 

[chickendude]

Is that amount keeping flies under total control?

 

[rockstar]

I'm flying by the seat of my pants on this too. I've just been throwing it out by about four to five fistfuls and then shaking it around with a rake. I just sprinkle a little in each nest box. My husband thought I should shake it down in the nest box because he thought the chickens would avoid it. They didn't and got into the nest boxes from the get go to lay their eggs.

 

[ColoradoMike]

Quote:
hehe - 'total control'? not sure there's such a thing.

I was having quite a few flies before I started using DE, and it's dropped dramatically since I've used it. I still see some, but it's not nearly as bad. I also dust the run lightly with DE and rake it in a little bit. I probably use ~1/2 cup+ for the entire coop and run (run is 4x11).

Once again, I'm very new at this, but thus far I've been pleased with the results I've seen with DE amounts I've been using.

 

[chickendude]

Yea its tough to get things perfect. I was hoping to hear a few opinions on how much to use. I guess there is no set exact amount. I was just afraid to over use it or under use it .

 

[chickendude]

ColoradoMike your runs floor is made of what? Dirt, straw etc.

 

[NarleevilleClucks]

I use alot of DE...I'm from the better safe than sorry mindset though...I Use about a coffee Can full between the floor of my 4 x 8 run and the floor of the coop which is 6 x4. I also dust around the coop in the dirt and shavings, in their favorite dust bathing places and anywhere that needs a little moisture absorbed. I think I'm in love with DE.

 

[chickendude]

Ok well thanks for the input. I am heading out to change the litter and spread about 3/4 to 1 cup in the new litter. I will check back later to see if any others have added to this post.