When moving the coop/run isn't an option

[Sammster]

My coop and run are in a permanent location. This is my first flock and they entered the coop about 4 months ago. I have a 10x10 run for my 5 chickens. I scoop up obvious droppings, daily. I add new pine shavings probably every 10 days.

My question is: Come spring, when it's time for a deep clean - is there anything I should add to the soil, after removing the soiled shavings, before adding fresh shavings? We have normal drainage. Should I attempt to aerate?

I've been reading posts about MG, and want to be as proactive as possible to avoid disease.

 

[21hens-incharge]

I simply turn the dirt in the run....basically using a spade fork or my tiny tiller to loosen and stir the stuff to keep it loose.

In over 10 years having chickens in that area I haven't had a disease outbreak.

If the sun can get in and hit that soil it's a good thing in my opinion.

 

[aart]

I never 'deep clean' the run, never clean it at all.
Just add more coarse wood chips...and maybe some dried grass, leaves, straw once in a while.