Chicken Coop Smelling Bad? (Here’s a simple herbal fix for it.)

Raising chickens is a lot of fun, yet maintaining a coop free from unpleasant odors can be a challenge. Drawing from my extensive 25 years of chicken keeping, I’m thrilled to share the top 9 powerful natural herbs and one special herbal blend to keep your chicken coop smelling delightful.

Let’s dive into this aromatic adventure, we’ll explore the benefits of nine herbs found in my product:

Nesting Box Herbs for Chickens

1. Minty Freshness

Peppermint is not just for tea; it’s a natural deodorizer. Line your chicken coop with it to give it a nice, pleasant scent. Peppermint also acts as a natural insect repellent! Hang dried peppermint bundles or sprinkle lavender in your coop bedding.

2. Marigold Magic (Calendula)

Calendula, commonly known as Marigolds, brings more than vibrant color. The flowers possess antibacterial properties. Integrate dried calendula petals into bedding to combat odors naturally.

3. Chamomile Serenity

Chamomile is not only a calming tea but also a coop ally. Scatter dried chamomile flowers in nesting boxes for a soothing environment. The mild fragrance promotes relaxation.

4. Parsley Pleasantries

Beyond being a culinary delight, parsley helps control coop odors. Add fresh parsley to nesting areas or incorporate dried parsley into bedding for a pleasant aroma.

5. Rosemary Refuge

Rosemary is a herbaceous hero with antibacterial properties. Hang rosemary sprigs in roosting areas or infuse bedding with rosemary to keep the coop fresh and clean.

6. Fennel Seed Freshness

Fennel seeds offer a subtle and refreshing scent. Sprinkle fennel seeds in nesting boxes or mix them into the bedding to enjoy their aromatic benefits.

7. Dandelion Leaf Dream

Dandelion leaves are more than backyard weeds; they can help neutralize odors. Incorporate dried dandelion leaves into the coop bedding for a natural freshness boost.

8. Marjoram Marvel

Marjoram is known for its calming properties. Hang bundles of dried marjoram or scatter the leaves in nesting boxes to create a serene and pleasant coop atmosphere.

9. Lavender Luxury

Lavender is a superstar in the coop. Its soothing aroma relaxes both chickens and keepers. Introduce dried lavender or lavender-infused bedding for a delightful and calming effect.

10. Nesting Box Herbs for Chicken Elegance

After decades of tending to my feathery friends, I understand the desire for a coop that not only smells fresh but also provides holistic benefits. Nesting Box Herbs for Chickens is a harmonious blend of the following 100% natural organic herbs:

1. Peppermint,
2. Calendula (Marigolds)
3. Chamomile
4. Parsley
5. Rosemary
6. Fennel Seed
7. Dandelion Leaf
8. Marjoram
9. Lavender

This carefully curated mix is designed to elevate your coop experience. Whether it’s combating odors, promoting relaxation, or providing antibacterial support, these herbs work synergistically to create a coop ambiance that both you and your chickens will adore.

Incorporating Nesting Box Herbs for Chickens is effortless – simply sprinkle a handful in nesting boxes or scatter them in the bedding. Watch as the coop transforms into a fragrant haven, where the power of natural herbs reigns supreme.

Using Herbs in and Around the Chicken Coop:

1. Sprinkling Herbs Around the Coop

• Around Perimeter of Chicken Coop: Sprinkle dried herbs around the coop perimeter to release a continuous, refreshing aroma. This will also help to deter rodents.
• In Coop Beds: Sprinkling a variety of herbs in coop bedding can create a fragrant and insect-resistant environment.
• In Hen Nesting Boxes: Sprinkle inside your hen nesting boxes to encourage egg laying, deter mites, lice, fleas and rodents. Your hens will love it!
• In Dust Bathing Areas: Sprinkle some dried herbs into your chicken dust bathing area. This will help encourage dust bathing. When your chickens roll around in the herbs it will release the amazing scent, leaving your coop smelling fresh.

2. Herbal Coop Spray

1. Prepare Herbal Base:
   • Crush the dried leaves to release more of the essential oils.
2. Boil Water:
   • Boil a pot of water. The amount of water depends on the size of the spray you want to make.
3. Steep Dried Herbs:
   • Place the dried leaves into a heat-resistant container.
   • Pour the boiling water over the herbal blend, ensuring it is fully submerged.
   • Let the herbs steep in the hot water for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the water to absorb the herbal essence.
4. Cool and Strain:
   • Allow the herb-infused water to cool to room temperature.
   • Strain the liquid to remove the herb leaves or tea bag remnants. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for this.
5. Pour into Spray Bottle:
   • Once strained, pour the herbal-infused water into a clean spray bottle. Choose a spray bottle size suitable for your coop.
6. Application:
   • Shake the spray bottle before each use to ensure an even distribution of herbal blend.
   • Spritz the herbal spray in and around the chicken coop, focusing on areas where pests are likely to gather or where odors may be more prominent.

This natural herbal spray not only contributes to a pleasant coop environment but also helps in pest control due to many herb repelling properties. Additionally, it provides a subtle and refreshing aroma. Regular application, especially during coop cleanings, can enhance its effectiveness.

3. Herbal Sachets:

• In Nesting Boxes: Place small herbal sachets in nesting boxes to keep the area fresh and insect-free.
• Coop Corners: Put herb sachets in coop corners to combat odors and pests.

Herbal sachets are a great addition to your chicken coop, offering not only a pleasant aroma, but they also help to:

• Encourage egg laying
• Repel pests (mites, lice, fleas, rodents)
• Boost chicken immune system
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-bacterial

Materials Needed for this Simple DIY Project:

1. Dried herbs
2. Small Muslin Bags or Fabric Scraps
3. String or Ribbon

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Gather Your Supplies:
   • Ensure you have all your materials ready, creating a designated crafting space.
2. Prepare the Herbs:
   • If you haven’t already, dry the herbs. This can be done by hanging fresh them upside down in bundles until fully dried.
3. Mix in Additional Herbs (Optional):
   • For added benefits and a diverse fragrance, consider mixing several herbs together. This step is optional but can enhance the sachets.
4. Create an Herbal Blend:
   • In a bowl, gently mix the herbal leaves that you’ve chosen. This ensures an even distribution of scents.
5. Prepare Sachet Bags:
   • If using muslin bags, fill each bag with the herb blend. If using fabric scraps, cut them into small squares and create DIY pouches by tying them securely with string, leaving room for the herbs.
6. Tie with Ribbon or String:
   • Seal the sachets by tying a ribbon or string around the opening. This not only secures the herbs but adds a charming touch.
7. Hang or Place in the Coop:
   • Hang the herb sachets in various locations around the chicken coop. Alternatively, you can tuck them into nesting boxes or coop corners.
8. Replace as Needed:
   • Over time, the fragrance of the sachets may fade. Refresh them by gently crushing the herbs inside or replacing them with a new batch.

Enjoy the soothing aroma of your herbal blend while promoting a pleasant and pest-free environment for your feathered friends!

Monitoring Your Chickens’ Response to New Herbs:

1. Observe Behavior:
   • Pay close attention to your chickens’ behavior when introducing new herbs. If they seem agitated or avoid certain areas, it might be an indication that the scent is too strong.
2. Adjust Quantity:
   • Start with small amounts of herbs and gradually increase based on your chickens’ response. This allows you to find the right balance that suits your flock.
3. Watch for Health Improvements:
   • Keep an eye on your chickens’ overall health. If you notice improvements in respiratory health or a reduction in pest-related issues, it’s a positive sign that the herbs are having a beneficial effect.

Conclusion

Cultivating a fresh coop is an art, and the secret lies in the natural potency of herbs. As you embark on this aromatic journey, remember that a coop filled with the scents of Peppermint, Calendula, Chamomile, Parsley, Rosemary, Fennel Seed, Dandelion Leaf, Marjoram, and Lavender is a coop filled with joy.

Trust in the wisdom of 25 years, embrace the magic of herbs, and let Nesting Box Herbs for Chickens be your aromatic ally in creating a coop that not only smells delightful but also resonates with the harmony of nature.