Run on gravel; how to prepare

[Tracyree]

I have to set up my small coop as a semi-long term jail for my feather eating hen and her friend. The only place I have that I can put it is on gravel. I was thinking I could make a frame out of 2x6 and fill it with mulch so they aren’t right on the gravel. Should I lay plywood down between the gravel and mulch? Other ideas?

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I have to set up my small coop as a semi-long term jail for my feather eating hen and her friend. The only place I have that I can put it is on gravel. I was thinking I could make a frame out of 2x6 and fill it with mulch so they aren’t right on the gravel. Should I lay plywood down between the gravel and mulch? Other ideas?

Photos of the space?

I wouldn't put plywood on the gravel, it would likely mold/mildew and hold in moisture. You still want some drainage.

Is the 2X6 space for dust bathing? If so, fill that in with a little mulch, sand and/or peat moss. Maybe a mix of all 3.

A lot depends on your climate of course. Peat moss will hold some moisture, but if there's good drainage, it works pretty well.

 

[Tracyree]

Photos of the space?

I wouldn't put plywood on the gravel, it would likely mold/mildew and hold in moisture. You still want some drainage.

Is the 2X6 space for dust bathing? If so, fill that in with a little mulch, sand and/or peat moss. Maybe a mix of all 3.

A lot depends on your climate of course. Peat moss will hold some moisture, but if there's good drainage, it works pretty well.

I didnt explain well. I mean put a 2x6 all around the run to hold in mulch/bedding so there would be like a 6” layer of mulch/bedding over the gravel

 

[Ridgerunner]

Is the gravel crushed stone with sharp edges that can cut their scratching feet or smooth pea gravel that is not sharp? To me, that would determine how badly it needs to be covered.

You want decent drainage. Is that gravel in a low spot that holds water or does it drain well? If it drains well it probably doesn't matter that much what you put on it. If it doesn't drain I'd consider filling it with enough sand to raise it so it does drain. You can put some other mulch over the sand if you wish.

 

[Tracyree]

It’s crushed gravel like for a driveway

 

[Ridgerunner]

Then I'd worry about them cutting their feet when scratching. I assume it is too big of an area to remove the gravel. I'd try covering it. Wood chips may work.