140+ Chicken Coop Next To Garden

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Opening: Preparing to Build Your DIY Chicken Coop and Garden Oasis Embarking on a DIY project to combine a chicken coop with a garden is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. This post will guide you through the process, step-by-step, ensuring your chickens have a safe and comfortable home while your garden thrives. This integrated system provides fresh eggs, natural pest control, and nutrient-rich compost for your plants.

Step 1: Planning and Design Before you start hammering and sawing, careful planning is crucial.

• Determine the Size: Consider the number of chickens you plan to house. A general rule is 4 square feet of coop space and 8 square feet of run space per chicken.
• Choose a Location: Select a spot in your yard that receives adequate sunlight (for the garden and chicken health) but also offers some shade, especially during hot summer months. Ensure the location has good drainage to prevent muddy conditions. Ideally, place the coop so prevailing winds blow away from your house to minimize odor.
• Sketch Your Design: Draw a detailed plan of your coop and run, including dimensions, materials, and any special features you want to incorporate (e.g., nesting boxes, roosting bars, garden beds). Think about how you'll access the coop for cleaning and egg collection, and how the chickens will access the run. Consider placing the garden adjacent to the run so chickens can easily access for pest control (under supervision).
• Gather Materials: Create a comprehensive list of materials needed, including lumber, hardware cloth (chicken wire is often too flimsy), roofing materials, nails, screws, and any other necessary supplies. Buying in bulk can often save money.

Step 2: Building the Coop Frame The frame provides the structural support for your coop.

• Cut Lumber: Cut the lumber according to your design specifications. Ensure precise cuts for a sturdy and square frame.
• Assemble the Base: Construct the base of the coop using pressure-treated lumber to prevent rot. Use screws for a stronger and more durable connection.
• Build the Walls: Construct the walls of the coop, ensuring they are securely attached to the base. Consider adding windows for ventilation and natural light.
• Construct the Roof: Build the roof frame, ensuring it has a slight slope to allow for water runoff. A steeper roof is preferable in areas with heavy snowfall.

Step 3: Enclosing the Coop This step focuses on creating a secure and weatherproof enclosure.

• Attach Hardware Cloth: Cover the walls of the coop with hardware cloth, stapling it securely to the frame. Hardware cloth is essential to keep predators out.
• Install Roofing: Install roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or metal roofing, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Overlap the materials properly to prevent leaks.
• Build the Door: Construct a door for the coop that is wide enough for easy access. Secure the door with a latch or lock to keep predators out.

Step 4: Building the Run The run provides a safe outdoor space for your chickens.

• Build the Run Frame: Construct the frame for the run using lumber. Ensure the frame is sturdy and can withstand the elements.
• Enclose the Run: Cover the run frame with hardware cloth, burying the bottom edge a few inches into the ground to prevent predators from digging underneath.
• Create Access: Provide access from the coop to the run, such as a small pop door. Ensure the pop door is securely closed at night to protect the chickens.
• Consider a Covered Run: Consider adding a roof to part of the run to provide shade and protection from rain.

Step 5: Adding Features and Finishing Touches This step involves adding the finishing touches to make the coop comfortable and functional.

• Install Nesting Boxes: Build or purchase nesting boxes and install them inside the coop. Provide one nesting box for every 3-4 hens.
• Add Roosting Bars: Install roosting bars inside the coop, providing ample space for the chickens to roost at night.
• Create a Garden Bed: Build raised garden beds adjacent to the run, ensuring there's a barrier to prevent chickens from accessing the garden unsupervised. You can also create a rotational grazing system to allow chickens to fertilize and control pests in the garden at specific times.
• Provide Water and Food: Place waterers and feeders inside the coop and run. Ensure they are easily accessible and kept clean.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the coop to prevent moisture buildup and ammonia odors.

Step 6: Introducing Your Chickens and Planting Your Garden The final step is welcoming your chickens to their new home and planting your garden.

• Introduce Your Chickens Gradually: Allow your chickens to acclimate to their new environment gradually. Supervise them closely for the first few days.
• Plant Your Garden: Plant your garden beds with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Choose plants that are suitable for your climate and soil conditions.
• Monitor and Adjust: Monitor your chickens and garden regularly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure their health and productivity.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Integrated Chicken Coop and Garden Congratulations on building your DIY chicken coop and garden! This integrated system will provide you with fresh eggs, delicious produce, and a sustainable way to manage your backyard. Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables and eggs) of your labor!

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