Deep Bedding for Chickens
Deep bedding refers to a method of providing bedding material for chickens that is several inches deep. This type of bedding is typically made up of materials such as straw, sawdust, or wood chips, and is intended to provide a comfortable and healthy environment for the chickens to live in. The deep bedding method is often used in free-range or pastured chicken systems, as it allows the chickens to scratch and forage for food while also providing a soft and clean place to rest.
Benefits of Deep Bedding for chicken
Deep bedding for chickens has several benefits, including:
Deep bedding helps to keep the chickens' living area clean and dry, reducing the risk of disease and parasites.
Chickens are able to scratch and forage for food in the deep bedding, which provides them with a more natural and comfortable environment.
The deep bedding acts as a natural deodorizer, helping to control the smell of chicken manure.
Deep bedding can be used to break down the manure and be used as a fertilizer.
By using deep bedding, farmers can reduce the need for additional bedding materials and cleaning products, which can lower the overall cost of keeping chickens.
Chickens in a deep bedding system are able to express more of their natural behaviors and have a more comfortable environment.
Method For Deep Bedding in Chicken Coop Management
Choosing the Right Bedding Material
The most common bedding materials used in deep bedding systems are straw and sawdust. Straw is a good option because it is absorbent, fluffy, and easy to find. Sawdust is also a good option because it is absorbent and long-lasting, but it can be more difficult to find.
Other materials such as wood shavings, leaves, and grass clippings can also be used, but they may be less effective at absorbing moisture and odors.
Setting Up the Coop
To set up a deep bedding system, a layer of bedding material is spread out on the floor of the coop. The depth of the bedding should be at least 6 inches, but can be as deep as 12 inches or more.
As the chickens move around and scratch in the bedding, they will naturally mix the material and create a soft, fluffy layer for them to rest on.
Maintenance
Over time, the bedding will become soiled with chicken manure and other debris. Instead of removing all the bedding and starting over, a deep bedding system allows you to simply add more bedding material on top of the existing bedding.
The manure and debris will eventually decompose and turn into a rich, nutrient-dense fertilizer that can be used to fertilize your garden or other plants.
Monitoring
Monitor the bedding material for wetness and odor, if the bedding material is wet, add more dry bedding material. Remove any wet and soiled areas to keep the coop clean and to prevent odors.
Best Choices for Chicken Bedding
Straw -Straw is a popular choice for deep chicken bedding because it is absorbent, fluffy, and easy to find. Its structure allows for good aeration, which helps to keep the bedding dry and prevent odors.
Sawdust - Sawdust is also a good option for deep chicken bedding because it is absorbent and long-lasting. It can be more difficult to find than straw, but it can also provide good aeration and odor control.
Wood Shavings - Wood shavings, such as pine or aspen, can be used in deep chicken bedding. They have good insulation properties, absorb moisture well and have a pleasant aroma. Avoid using cedar shavings as they can be toxic for chickens.
Recycled Paper - Using shredded recycled paper can be a good option for deep chicken bedding. It is absorbent and can be used as a great alternative to sawdust or wood shavings, it's also environmentally friendly.
Deep Litter Method- The best Bedding for coop
The deep litter method is a cost-effective and time-saving method for managing chicken coops. It not only provides a comfortable and healthy living environment for chickens, but also helps prevent infestations of parasites and generates heat for the flock during cold months. Proper management of the deep litter is crucial for maintaining a dry, fluffy, and absorbent bedding that requires minimal maintenance.
One of the main benefits of deep litter is that it eliminates the need for frequent bedding replacement. The bedding material is periodically added and mixed, allowing the manure and debris to decompose and turn into a nutrient-dense fertilizer. This not only reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, but also eliminates the presence of toxic nitrogen in the soil.
The bedding material absorbs moisture and odors, preventing the buildup of harmful gases such as ammonia. The bedding also creates an environment that is less appealing to pests such as mites and lice, which can be a major problem in traditional chicken coops.
The deep litter method also promotes a more natural living environment for chickens. Chickens are naturally inclined to scratch and forage for food, and deep bedding allows them to engage in these behaviors in a safe and healthy way. The bedding also provides a comfortable place for the chickens to rest and sleep, which is essential for their overall well-being.
Method to set deep litter bedding
· Start by spreading a 3- to 4-inch layer of clean litter on the floor of the coop
· Once a week, use a pitchfork or rake to turn over droppings, and toss on another clean thin layer of pine shavings.
· Break up any caked litter and redistribute the moisture.
· Add more litter if you notice any odor of ammonia.
· Check for wet spots from leaky waterers, which can be breeding spot for mold and fungus
· Once the litter reaches a foot or so in height, remove a few inches off the top to maintain a 4- to 6-inch height for the pile
· Repeat the process to keep the pile more manageable for your chickens and the composting process.
Some farmers choose to add a layer of diatomaceous earth or saturday lime to further prevent parasites or bugs that can grow in damp conditions. Always make sure your moisture levels are well maintained.