I did something today...

[Redhead Rae]

My Son does landscaping and Sod here in Canada is safe.

The US is less stringent on control of potentially harmful chemicals.

 

[chickens really]

'Safe' for whom?
I seriously doubt sod grown anywhere is chemical free.
Just sayin'.
It might not kill chickens if they eat it, but still.....

Walking across the street actually isn't safe either..
Anyways this could really turn into another ridiculous debate and discussion...

 

[Cryss]

I don't use sod but I'm planning a chicken garden for their run. I'm going to build a simple raised garden bed at one end of the run. I will cover it with a "lid" of chicken wire so they can't scratch up the roots but they can enjoy fresh greens, herbs, veggies, maybe even fruits. I'm still in planning stage for what exactly I will plant.

 

[blackdog043]

I use deep litter in my run, it keeps them busy. You can throw good things in there for them to find.

 

[Cryss]

I use deep litter in my run, it keeps them busy. You can throw good things in there for them to find.
View attachment 1630113

Yup, I do that too! They scratch and peck to their hearts content.

 

[flyin-lowe]

I think your safe putting down sod..You have nothing to worry about. ..Definitely not treated with anything that will harm the Birds.

That is kind of a broad statement, especially when talking about companies who are capable of providing sod to large retailers. I am guessing there is all kinds of things they do to some sods to get it to grow quick and without weeds. Usually the cheaper the options the harsher the chemicals....I would venture to guess that the sod farmers who produce sod for big box stores and not using chemical free/green techniques.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I agree there's probably chemicals in commercial sod that I would not want chickens to have access to. For the same reason I don't fertilize or treat my lawn other than mowing, since the chickens get ocassional access to it.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

Thanks for the suggestion. I already took out the sod just in case. That litter idea is good though. Perhaps I’ll use it.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

Thanks for the feedback! I already tookbout the sod. I think it might have pesticides. So, I took it out. Thanks!

 

[Redhead Rae]

Thanks for the suggestion. I already took out the sod just in case. That litter idea is good though. Perhaps I’ll use it.

One thing you can do once you put in the deep litter, dig random holes, add some scratch and bury it, leaving a little over the area you buried it. This will help teach the chickens to turn the litter, which buries their poop and helps it compost. It is also enrichment for them.