[Flyin Chickens]

I have 2 hens who the run of an area approx 15ft by 15ft and who in the matter of about 2 weeks managed to turn this once green area in to a nice old mud bath.

Over the winter they have had plenty of fun turning the soil over in the hunt for live food but also mixing in the poop.

I am now looking to relay some grass with a plastic mesh fence lay over it to allow the girls to eat the grass but prevent them from digging it up (They will still have plenty of digging space at the back of the coop which is out of sight)

I have previously read on here that I should mix some lime powder in the soil when turning it over to reduce the smell, however when I went to buy some it says to keep away from children and pets…..am I correct in the possible use of lime powder to reduce the smell? And is it safe for the hens?

If I lay grass on the soil with out the lime powder will it grow fine??

Not sure if these are silly questions but I feel that it is always best to ask first.

Thanks

[Aunt Sally]

Sprinkling garden lime on and digging it in will have no adverse effect on the hens.  I know many keepers who do it.  It will sweeten the soil and reduce any sour smell.

[Flyin Chickens]

Thanks.  Thought I best check first