Has anyone used wood chippings in their run?

[chookchick]

I looove wood chip in the run. I just replaced most of the chip in the big run that had been there all winter. I kept looking for the poo but couldn't find it! The chickens stay clean and dry, and the old chip is great for the garden, and they love to dig around in it. I use cedar too, in the run. I use it when it has aged a little and not in enclosed spaces. You can get wood chips delivered for free from tree pruning companies. P. S. it rains a lot here!

 

[SMan]

I use woodchips in a layered run,


Grass/weeds/greens

Dirt

Sand

Wood Chips

Ground

It seem to help with drainage and hasn't stunk, but it isnt the base layer and you really can't see it.

 

[Tad]

I am a huge fan of wood chips in the run, hit your yellow pages and look under tree trimmers/ arborist, call them and see if you can make a deal for a pile of chips, they are usually free or just a small donation.
If you can get 2 piles and let them age just a little bit, and fill the run about 4 to 6 inches!!
CHIPS RULE!!!

 

[Davaroo]

Quote:
You are not the only Brit, no. But there aren't a lot of you - so do England proud! MARMITE - LOVE IT!

As for woodchips, they are like anything else - they will hold moisture and harbor disease if there is poor drainage. No chicken yard should be sited where there is even an inkling of drainage issues.
It would be a good idea to have a deep layer of sand or gravel beneath the chips, the chippings to be considered a top dressing.
They should also be raked over frequently to expose the lower layers to the air. Of course, replacing them periodically is neccessary.
Lets just hope you werent looking for a maintenance free run litter. None such exists, especially so if you feel the need for such in the first place. The only true maintenance free run is the earth itself, and for that you need a lot of space - 90 sq. ft/bird MINIMUM.

 

[Earl Grey Sian]

"You are not the only Brit, no. But there aren't a lot of you - so do England proud! MARMITE - LOVE IT!"


In response to this post from Davaroo, I am in the UK, but that doesn't mean I'm English. I'm actually Welsh. Biggest difference, more rain in Wales!!

Thanks for all the replies and advice. The woodchip is down and so far, so good

 

[Xfranc]

Im in the UK aswell

You are not alone

Ive got a tiny garden with 6 chickens and 6 in the bator ...

Im working on the expanssion

Hugs

Kat

 

[Davaroo]

Marmite - Love it!