Mulch?

[mgarrett]

I've read on some other websites where people have used mulch in the bottom of their coops and/or runs for composting purposes. Basically, turn the mulch (they say it also helps the smell), and eventually just use it for soil or retire it to a compost pile and use it later. I wasn't sure how to feel about this idea- it seems good at first but seems like it would greatly contribute to a muddy coop run? Just wondering if anyone has tried this or has an expert opinion on the matter?

 

[chfite]

I have big flower beds with mulch. I haven't used mulch in the run. Coarse ground mulch would probably work fine. If it were wet, it would serve as a platform for the chickens to walk on. If it were soaked for a long time, it would tend to stay damp. I don't know if that is a good idea.

You could turn it, but I suspect that the chickens would take care of that.

All in all, I would prefer sand. The loamy soil where my runs are located drains rapidly after a heavy rain. Consequently, I don't have mud when the ground is wet.

As the soil breaks down from the wear and tear of the chickens, I will add sand.

As far as mulch in the coop is concerned, it seems that it would be more trouble due to the size of the chunks than the pine shavings from Tractor Supply are to use.

The main consideration to me is that it is easy to use, move, clean, and remove. I doubt that the chickens care.

Chris

 

[SunnyAlberta]

What about mulch from a wood chipper? We've just chipped a bunch of branches.