Best Ground Cover for a Muddy Chicken Run?

[EggSeeker]

Hey everyone! I’m trying to figure out the best way to manage the ground in my chicken run. The area outside the run, where we walk, is getting covered with pea gravel because the chickens destroyed the grass. They used to free range in our backyard, but we now have a dog with a high prey drive and have also put in turf—so no more roaming for them.

Inside the run, I’ve always mixed pine shavings into the dirt, which the chickens love scratching in, but it can get really muddy after rain. I’m worried about them kicking mud onto the pea gravel and making a mess.

Would it be better to:

1. Add pea gravel inside the run as well?
2. Use pavers over the dirt in some areas?
3. Mix in something else like sand or straw?

I’d really appreciate any advice from those who have dealt with muddy runs before! What worked best for you?

[CrowingCounselor]

I use a mix of dirt, sand, and chopped straw. The straw keeps things drier, and the sand helps prevent compaction. Plus, they love scratching through it!

[DownyDreamkeeper]

Hey everyone! I’m trying to figure out the best way to manage the ground in my chicken run. The area outside the run, where we walk, is getting covered with pea gravel because the chickens destroyed the grass. They used to free range in our backyard, but we now have a dog with a high prey drive and have also put in turf—so no more roaming for them.

Inside the run, I’ve always mixed pine shavings into the dirt, which the chickens love scratching in, but it can get really muddy after rain. I’m worried about them kicking mud onto the pea gravel and making a mess.

Would it be better to:

1. Add pea gravel inside the run as well?
2. Use pavers over the dirt in some areas?
3. Mix in something else like sand or straw?

I’d really appreciate any advice from those who have dealt with muddy runs before! What worked best for you?

Try elevating the run slightly with a layer of packed gravel underneath before adding bedding. That should help keep it from turning into a muddy mess every time it rains.

[HennaHatcher]

If you want something low-maintenance, consider putting down a layer of crushed limestone. It packs down well, allows drainage, and keeps things cleaner.

[BantamBoss]

Hey everyone! I’m trying to figure out the best way to manage the ground in my chicken run. The area outside the run, where we walk, is getting covered with pea gravel because the chickens destroyed the grass. They used to free range in our backyard, but we now have a dog with a high prey drive and have also put in turf—so no more roaming for them.

Inside the run, I’ve always mixed pine shavings into the dirt, which the chickens love scratching in, but it can get really muddy after rain. I’m worried about them kicking mud onto the pea gravel and making a mess.

Would it be better to:

1. Add pea gravel inside the run as well?
2. Use pavers over the dirt in some areas?
3. Mix in something else like sand or straw?

I’d really appreciate any advice from those who have dealt with muddy runs before! What worked best for you?

If you go with gravel, make sure it's small and smooth. Large, sharp stones can be rough on their feet, especially if they like to dust bathe.

[EggsAndThings]

I wouldn't use pavers unless you plan to cover the entire run. Chickens love to dig, and they might get frustrated if they can't scratch around. You could try straw or hay, but be aware that it can get moldy in wet conditions.

[RoostRuler]

I use a mix of coarse sand and wood shavings. The sand helps with drainage, and the shavings add some organic matter to scratch in. Works great in all seasons!

[PasturePecker]

My run used to be a muddy disaster until I switched to wood chips from a tree service. It's free, breaks down slowly, and keeps the ground dry. Highly recommend!

[yava]

Econ

[yava]

653.5