Exactly how to spread DE?? And how to mix w/food??

[chicks4kids]

I have been reading alot on DE, so I ordered some, got it, and now am wondering just how to use it...

I want to spread it around their coop area right?? Around where they spend the majority of their ranging time?? And if so, like what, a light sifting, or a heavy coating?? Also, if I mix it in their food, is it 2 parts DE to eight parts feed?? I can't find the post or my notes...

Thanks!!

 

[ChickenToes]

I use maybe a cup or so at a time. I rake it into the shavings on the coop floor. I don't put it in their feed though, so I can't help you with that part.

 

[Monk]

Quote:
How big is your coop? My coop is 4'x 6', I put in about one cup of DE and mixed it in my shavings with a hoe, I'm just winging it???
I don't put it in their feed either?

 

[swtamour]

I've read that you should put 2% of DE into the feed. For 50lb bag, put 1lb DE.

 

[chicks4kids]

Sorry, my coop is 4x8. But I put it around outside too don't I?

 

[Slywoody]

I sprinkle the DE with a strainer all over the straw and the feeder too. You will love the stuff. Works great.