REAL mulch

[jjakaus]

I have 4 chickens in an urban backyard setting. They have constant access to a 9x9 fenced pen and have eaten all the grass! I have access to some "real" (just cut down tree) mulch and was wondering about putting a good layer down in the run. Since it is not treated with anything, am I creating a natural ground cover or just asking for a muddy mess? All thoughts are welcome and accepted! Thanks!!

Janice

P.S. This doesn't effect the problem but I wanted to add the side note. The trees are trees planted by my grandpa about 50 years ago. He died before I got my chickens, but he would have LOVED it. I kind of like the idea if having some of him involved with my chickens! Not to worry, though. If not good for the chickens, I have plenty of other places to use it!!

 

[Rich386]

I have an area with mulch in my pen the girls love scratching in it. I don't see any problem.

 

[MoonShadows]

When you say tree mulch, I assume you mean those thick wood chips and/or saw dust? I was going to use this in my run, but then I read that it is prone to growing mold and/or fungus spores which can be harmful to chickens. I guess much would be dependent on how wet it gets and how long it stays wet.

 

[ChirpyChicks1]

I think mulch will hold too much moisture (why it's used for plants) but it will probably be really bad for odor control

 

[Rich386]

The mulch is also a place for bugs to hide and we all know how they love bugs. LOL

 

[Kernel Cluck]

I would not use mulch. Holds moisture and in your area (I think your are in Michigan) the it would freeze and thaw into a mess in the spring because of the chicken poo mixed in. I would use sand. Not play box sand but the kind of sand with peebles in it. It is cheap to buy and is excellent for drainage and the girls can use it for grit.

 

[ChirpyChicks1]

The mulch is also a place for bugs to hide and we all know how they love bugs. LOL

I'm sure most do (mine don't) but I just don't think that is a good enough excuse to use mulch. And considering jjakaus lives in the city odor control will be a big issue.

 

[Chickens R Us]

I would go with sand. Good drainage and easy to scoop out the poop with a kitty litter scooper.

 

[c2chicks]

I agree, would choose sand over mulch, if possible. Love the sand...

 

[jjakaus]

Thanks everyone! It is more like shredded tree than anything else, but I have decided to go with the census and stay away from using it. I may look into some sand. I don't really have a problem with odor or drainage. I was mostly just not wanting to look at bare earth. Not sure sand would be a huge inprovement! although maybe I can do a beach motif! Thanks again