You can buy hemp bedding for chickens at local farm supply stores, online retailers like Amazon, or specialty websites focused on poultry products.
Hemp bedding has become a game-changer for chicken owners. This eco-friendly material keeps coops cleaner, reduces odors, and protects your flock’s health. Discover where to find the best hemp bedding and why it outperforms traditional options.
Best Places to Buy Hemp Chicken Bedding
Online Retailers
Several reputable online stores offer quality hemp bedding:
- Dominion Hemp – Known for high absorption and dust-free formula
- Carolina Coops – Offers premium hemp with natural pest-repellent properties
- Amazon – Carries various brands with fast shipping options
- Chewy – Popular for pet and poultry supplies
Local Farm Stores
Many farm supply chains now stock hemp bedding:
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Rural King
- Local feed stores (call ahead to check availability)
Specialty Poultry Shops
Some chicken-focused retailers like coop suppliers often carry hemp bedding alongside other premium chicken products.
Why Choose Hemp Over Traditional Bedding?
Superior Absorption
Hemp absorbs 4x its weight in moisture compared to pine shavings. This keeps your coop drier and reduces ammonia buildup. Wet bedding can lead to health issues like sudden chicken deaths from bacterial growth.
Health Benefits
Hemp bedding offers several health advantages:
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| 99% dust-free | Reduces respiratory issues |
| Natural pest resistance | Discourages mites and ticks |
| Antibacterial properties | Creates healthier environment |
Cost Comparison: Hemp vs Traditional Bedding
While hemp costs more upfront, it lasts longer:
- Hemp needs changing less frequently
- Better absorption means using less material
- Reduces vet bills from respiratory issues
- Works well with deep litter method
How to Use Hemp Bedding Effectively
For Nesting Boxes
Use 2-3 inches of hemp bedding to cushion eggs. This prevents cracks while keeping hens comfortable during laying.
For Coop Flooring
Apply 4-6 inches for optimal absorption. The deep litter method works particularly well with hemp’s properties.
For Brooders
Hemp’s soft texture and warmth make it ideal for baby chicks. Its dust-free nature protects developing respiratory systems.
Environmental Benefits
Hemp bedding is:
- 100% biodegradable
- Chemical-free production
- Sustainable crop (grows in 90-120 days)
- Excellent for composting
When changing bedding, consider adding it to your garden. The nitrogen-rich material makes fantastic fertilizer when properly composted.
Tips for Transitioning to Hemp Bedding
Switching bedding types requires some adjustment:
- Clean coop thoroughly before first use
- Mix with old bedding initially if chickens seem hesitant
- Monitor moisture levels – hemp absorbs differently than wood
- Adjust quantity based on your climate and flock size
Many chicken owners report their flocks prefer hemp once accustomed to it. The soft texture makes it comfortable for resting and sunbathing behaviors.
Seasonal Considerations
Hemp performs well year-round:
- Winter: Provides insulation against cold
- Summer: Allows better airflow than dense materials
- Wet seasons: Handles moisture better than straw or shavings
For extreme climates, you may need to adjust bedding depth. In very cold areas, combine hemp with other insulating materials.