Muddy Runs

[LynneP]

If you ever decide to roof and to add platforms, raised rocks or a few tons of sand, you will feel as though God has touched your run and deemed it worthy...such a lot of work, but from that point onward, you will laugh at mud season.

For the time being straw, shavings, almost anything will help. Bring in a few stepping stones. But the cadillac of runs has a platform outside the pop door, and your hens will do the bird dance for you!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=7693-LynnePs_Run

 

[Davaroo]

In addtion to Pats superb recommendations, do some research into the Englishman Geoffrey Sykes and his book "the Henyard."
Long out of print and often VERY pricey when one can be found, it contains a wealth of information on this matter.

 

[hippichick]

Quote:
What kind of Mulch do you use ? and how thick do you put it ?

I use Cypress mulch, and also Eucalyptus. I get a really good deal on mulch, so I use whatever kind I get a deal on. I put it 3-4 inches thick, but even a thinner layer works. It really cuts down on the smell. And there is no mud whatsoever in my runs. I've been doing this since last Summer, and it works great for me.

Paula

 

[Glenda L Heywood]

The best solution is to add agriculture limestone
a good depth after the pea gravel

after the peagravel is added first
this makes the pens solid up and this will be okay

It is okay for chickens as it is calcium and can't hurt them