How many Chickens for a 2000sqf run to keep it clean

[Rhys Cuff]

The new coop will be big, going to by a kids cubby, fit it out, remove the floor and put it on wheels/tracks to slide above my compost bins, that way I can move it now and again and hopefully less cleaning ;-)

 

[pilch]

You can always scale up, start with a dozen or two and go from there.

I would build a movable coop with an open bottom (1"x1" welded wire) and use a mobile electric poultry net for the run perimeter. Split your orchard up into sections or paddocks, let's say four equal paddocks for ease of example, 500 sqft each. Put the chickens in paddock 1 for however many weeks it takes for them to make a noticeable impact on the land (this is obviously subjective), then move them to paddock 2, and repeat for 3 and 4. Adjust number of and time spent in paddocks accordingly. This system gives the land time to rest and recover before animals are reintroduced.

If your main purpose for chickens is to clear the orchard of any vegetation, then my above recommendation doesn't make sense. However, it does make sense to get a straight run of 100 chicks, raise them, and let them clear the orchard for you. Then you must add 8" or more of wood chips over the entire area to prevent re-growth of undesired grasses, etc. Cull the roosters when the job is done, and keep however many hens you desire for eggs and to clear fallen fruit from the orchard.

However, if you are looking to feed your chickens with consistent fresh grass/bugs/grubs/fruit and want higher egg quality, then give the paddock system a shot and see how it works.

Either way, good luck!
Steve

 

[Rhys Cuff]

That’s great advice. Thanks ;-)