How Much DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Should I Feed My Chickens

[CarolynF]

I've been searching the forums but haven't found the answer to this. How much DE (diatomaceous earth) should I be feeding? I only have 2 chickens right now so I only put out about 1 lb of food at a time. Would I add a tablespoon, teaspoon, 1 ounce... ? This one seems to be a tuffy for me!

THANKS!

 

[tclegg]

I wonder the same and if anyone knows how much and where and what size bags it comes in?

 

[TroutsChicks]

I found some food grade at the co-op they said they had 50# bags and 2.5 # bags. I also don't know how much to give, but plans on giving them some to dust bathe in.

 

[WisconsinChickenWhisperer]

I found some food grade at my local co-op as well, but it only comes in 4# bags. Right now I only use it in their bedding and for dust bathing........

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

None

There is no benefit to feeding it to any animals at all

 

[Marshchick]

I'd done a few searches on DE in the forum, and one poster suggested 1/4 cup of DE per 1 gallon of feed. So I've been using that measurement.

 

[savilcr]

I thought you were only supposed to put it in their bedding? anyone else feed it to them?

 

[Sissy]

yes it can be added to feed
BUT.. only food grade.. DE

not the kind for swimming pools.


for 2 chickens??? that is a tough one.
Lb. feed for 2 chix should last at least a week

if you feed them some table scraps mine love popcorn
but popped of course. or left over cooked rice.
or old bread.
thats save on the feed bill
as your flock grows. and some pumpkin or fruit.

 

[memahenny]

I only use it for bedding and baths............

It's good to put on kennels for dogs too...........helps keep the flys away

 

[BoltonChicken]

I wouldn't feed it to them at all. Good for insects, bugs, etc. when put in litter and also kills lice on the chicks. Make SURE it is food grade DE, the other kind
can kill 'em.