Opinions on Mulch in the run

[aart]

Is pine bark okay for chickens? We got it and just put one bag in the corner.

Sure.
But it won't fix the digging under the fence problem.

 

[Annalyse]

Sure.
But it won't fix the digging under the fence problem.

I know today they acually didn’t dog surprisingly but we’re thinking of adding a something on the outside to fix the problem.

 

[aart]

I know today they acually didn’t dog surprisingly but we’re thinking of adding a something on the outside to fix the problem.

For digging inside you need to add something inside.

 

[Happy hen lover]

I have things inside and a wall of cinder blocks I planted some stuff in.

 

[SayChicken]

I also so use mulch, no tree service or free in our community so I buy it bagged from a local nursery. I buy cypress pet/children friendly and it isnt overly expensive. 5 bags gave my run a nice base and was $5/bag. I then add dried leaves, grasses and other materials throughout the year. It breaks down nicely and I dig some out each spring for my compost pile and some garden areas and then add more mulch. I only add new once a year.

I also have logs along run fence to keep them from digging out.

If you are only adding new material once a year I’m wondering how it stays ‘clean’. Is your mulch deep enough that you just keep turning it over in the run to flip the poop to the bottom?

 

[3KillerBs]

If you are only adding new material once a year I’m wondering how it stays ‘clean’. Is your mulch deep enough that you just keep turning it over in the run to flip the poop to the bottom?

In a deep litter system the litter is moist and actively composting. The composting action neutralizes the poop.

*Generally* the chickens turn the litter themselves. They can be encouraged to do so by throwing a handful of scratch into the area you want them to work on.

 

[WIchickMama]

Yep I dont turn mine unless there is an area that needs it. I do add some dry leaves during the fall but the bulk of the material gets added each spring about 6-8 inches