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I was thinking more about that, and I wonder if those concerns are based in fact. For example, I have read in many places that a deep litter system actually gets better and is healthier for the chickens as it ages. Yeah, I know it sounds bad to have feces laden woodchips, but isn't the whole concept of deep litter based on just that? Well, in my setup, there would be a lot of coop litter and less chicken poo in the mix. I use a dry deep bedding method with semi-annual cleanouts.For anyone wondering what the dry deep bedding system is, here is a nice summary of that method that I have been using for 5+ years succssfully....
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The Dry Deep Bedding Method is similar to the Deep Litter Method, but instead of encouraging composting, it focuses on keeping the bedding dry and absorbent for long-term use. This method is great for reducing odors, minimizing cleaning, and maintaining a healthier coop environment.
How the Dry Deep Bedding Method Works
- Start with a Thick Base Layer – Lay down 6-12 inches of dry bedding material like pine shavings, straw, or wood chips.
- Regularly Add Fresh Bedding – Instead of turning the bedding like in deep litter, simply layer fresh bedding on top as needed.
- Keep Moisture Out – The key difference is preventing moisture buildup—this means ensuring good ventilation and avoiding excessive humidity.
- Encourage Natural Drying – Chickens will scratch and mix the bedding naturally, helping dry out droppings and distribute waste evenly.
- Clean Out Periodically – Instead of composting in place, the bedding is fully removed and replaced every few months to a year, depending on conditions.
Low Maintenance – No daily cleaning, just occasional fresh bedding additions. Odor Control – Dry bedding absorbs moisture and ammonia, keeping the coop fresh. Healthier Air Quality – Reduces respiratory issues by preventing damp conditions. Comfortable for Chickens – Provides a soft, insulating surface for roosting and scratching. Less Mess – Since it stays dry, there’s no heavy, wet bedding to deal with.Best Bedding Materials for Dry Deep Bedding
- Pine shavings – Highly absorbent and great for odor control.
- Wood chips – Long-lasting and helps with aeration.
- Straw – Provides insulation but needs regular fluffing.
- Hemp bedding – Super absorbent and dust-free.
I used to use wood chips as litter in my coop, but I switched to using paper shreds and like that even better. Paper shreds are dust free, much lighter than wood chips, and compost very fast. Plus, I no longer send any paper products to the recycle/landfill anymore. I use almost all our paper products as litter in the coop, then into the chicken run for composting.
Ace Hardware Elevated Herb Garden
Just for grins and giggles, I wondered how much they are selling that kit for? Get ready...
What!!! $110.00 for basically a scrap lumber project? I suggest if you like this Herb Garden idea just build your own out of pallet wood and save yourself $110.00.
Some of you may remember that last year I built a nice elevated planter for our deck. It was designed to use a large 27-gallon plastic tote inserted into the frame. I wanted to use the plastic totes to make the planter a self-wicking system, with a reservoir of water in the bottom. I was all excited about my idea, but Dear Wife was resistant to my creation. She said it would take up too much room on "her" deck. End of discussion.
For reference, here was my completed elevated tote planter pallet wood project that never found a home last year...
Anyone want to buy it? I'll sell it to you for $110.00! (Shipping not included) Guaranteed to be a better, stronger build than that Ace Hardware Herb Garden kit.
