Finding the right bedding for your coop can be a daunting task.
There are many different options out there, but one that has become increasingly popular in recent years is hemp bedding. Not only is it a more sustainable option than traditional bedding materials, but it also has many benefits for your chickens.
However, one question that often comes up is where to get the best quality hemp bedding at an affordable price.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and some tips on where to find the cheapest hemp bedding.
What is Hemp Bedding?
Hemp bedding is made from the stalks of the industrial hemp plant. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bedding options, as it’s renewable, biodegradable, and compostable. Hemp bedding is also highly absorbent, making it a popular choice for pet owners and farmers alike.
Benefits of Hemp Bedding for Chickens
- Absorbent Properties
One of the main benefits of hemp bedding for chickens is its absorbent properties. Hemp bedding can absorb up to four times its weight in moisture, which helps to keep your coop clean and dry. This is particularly important during the winter months when chickens are spending more time inside the coop.
- Dust-Free
Another benefit of hemp bedding is that it’s virtually dust-free. This is important for both you and your chickens, as dust can cause respiratory issues and other health problems. By using hemp bedding, you can provide a healthier environment for your chickens and reduce the amount of dust in your coop.
- Natural Odor Control
Hemp bedding also has natural odor control properties. As it absorbs moisture, it helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes that can cause unpleasant odors. This means that your coop will smell fresher for longer, and you won’t have to clean it out as frequently.
- Compostable
Hemp bedding is also compostable, which means that it can be added to your compost pile or used as mulch in your garden. This is a great way to reduce waste and provide a natural source of nutrients for your plants.
- Safe for Chickens
Finally, hemp bedding is safe for chickens to use. It’s free from harmful chemicals and additives, so you don’t have to worry about your chickens ingesting anything harmful. Hemp bedding is also soft and comfortable for chickens to walk and roost on, which is important for their overall health and well-being.
How to Use Hemp Bedding in Your Coop
If you’re interested in using hemp bedding for your chickens, here are some tips on how to get started:
- Choose a Quality Product
First, make sure that you choose a high-quality hemp bedding product. Look for bedding that’s free from dust and debris, and that has a high absorbency rate. Carolina Coops is a great source of high-quality hemp bedding for chickens.
- Layer the Bedding
Next, layer the hemp bedding in your coop. You’ll want to create a layer that’s at least a few inches thick, as this will provide enough cushioning for your chickens to walk and roost on. You can also add additional layers as needed to keep your coop clean and dry.
- Clean the Coop Regularly
While hemp bedding is highly absorbent and helps to control odors, it’s still important to clean your coop regularly. Remove any soiled bedding and replace it with fresh bedding as needed. This will help to keep your coop clean and prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful microbes.
- Use a Deep Litter Method
If you’re using hemp bedding, you can also use a deep litter method in your coop. This involves adding additional layers of bedding on top of the existing bedding over time, rather than removing it all at once. This helps to promote natural composting and creates a healthier environment for your chickens.
- Compost the Used Bedding
Finally, when you’re ready to clean out your coop, you can add the used hemp bedding to your compost pile or use it as mulch in your garden. This is a great way to reduce waste and provide a natural source of nutrients for your plants.
Is Hemp Bedding Ok For Baby Chicks
Hemp bedding can be a suitable option for baby chicks, but there are some factors to consider before using it. As with any bedding, it’s important to provide a safe and healthy environment for your chicks.
One of the benefits of hemp bedding is that it’s dust-free, which can be beneficial for baby chicks as dust can cause respiratory issues. Hemp bedding is also highly absorbent, which can help to keep the brooder area clean and dry. Additionally, hemp bedding is free from harmful chemicals and additives, making it a safe option for baby chicks.
However, it’s important to note that hemp bedding can be more expensive than other bedding options, which may not be feasible for some chicken keepers. It’s also important to choose a high-quality hemp bedding product that is free from debris and has a high absorbency rate.
When using hemp bedding for baby chicks, it’s important to monitor them closely to ensure that they are not ingesting any of the bedding. This can be a risk with any bedding material, as baby chicks are prone to pecking at and eating anything in their environment. You can help to prevent this by providing chick feed and water in separate containers, and by keeping the brooder area clean and free from debris.
Where to Buy Hemp Bedding
Now that you know the benefits of using hemp bedding for your chickens, the next question is where to buy it. Here are some options to consider:
- Carolina Coops
One of the best places to buy hemp bedding is directly from Carolina Coops. They offer high-quality hemp bedding that is clean, dust-free, and perfect for your chickens. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, the quality is worth it. Plus, they often offer discounts and promotions, so it’s worth checking out their website to see what deals are available.
- Amazon
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Amazon is a great place to start. They offer a variety of hemp bedding brands, including the popular brand “Old Dominion”. However, it’s important to note that not all hemp bedding brands are created equal. Some may be dusty or of lower quality, so be sure to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase.
- Local Feed Stores
Another option is to check with your local feed store. Many feed stores now carry hemp bedding as it has become a more popular option for chicken owners. While the price may vary depending on your location, it’s worth checking with your local store to see if they carry it and what the price is.
Tips for Buying Hemp Bedding
When buying hemp bedding, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best quality for your chickens:
- Look for clean, dust-free bedding. Dust can be harmful to your chickens’ respiratory systems, so it’s important to choose bedding that is clean and dust-free.
- Check the absorbency. You want bedding that is highly absorbent to keep your coop clean and dry.
- Read reviews. Before making a purchase, be sure to read reviews from other chicken owners who have used the bedding. This can give you a good idea of the quality and any potential issues with the bedding.
Conclusion
Overall, hemp bedding is a great option for chicken owners looking for a sustainable, natural bedding option. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, the benefits for your chickens and the environment are worth it.
Whether you choose to buy from Carolina Coops, Amazon, or your local feed store, be sure to look for clean, dust-free bedding that is highly absorbent. With a little research and careful consideration, you can find the perfect hemp bedding for your chickens.
