Why woodchip works
- Drains well, so the run doesn't turn to mud in winter.
- Soaks up droppings and cuts the smell.
- Gives hens something to scratch through, which keeps them busy.
- Breaks down in place, so it ends up as compost rather than waste.
How deep, and the deep litter method
Start with 15 to 20 cm. Hens scratch it about and it settles, so add more whenever bare ground shows. Many keepers use a deep litter approach: rather than clearing the run, you keep adding fresh chip on top and let the bottom layer compost slowly under the birds.
Once or twice a year, dig out the rotted bottom layer for the garden and start again.
What to watch for
- Damp and mould: a run that stays waterlogged can grow mould, and mould spores are bad for birds' lungs. A roof over part of the run and good drainage help; turn and top up wet patches.
- Yew: its needles and seeds are poisonous to poultry and livestock. When a crew calls ahead, ask what's in the load. If it's been through a yew, use it elsewhere.
- Sharp bits: pick out thorny material and long splinters from the first load.
- Inside the coop: use fine shavings or straw for nest boxes, not coarse arborist chip.
When it's done
Used chip with droppings in it is a ready-made compost mix: the chip gives carbon, the droppings give nitrogen. Heap it for six months to a year and it's a good soil improver. Don't put it straight on vegetables.