Published: March 7, 2026
Howdy from the Coop, Farm Mamas
It’s early March, the days are lengthening, the mud is thawing, and the coop needs its annual deep clean before the chicks arrive and the bugs wake up.
After more than a decade of country living and sustainable farming on our 33-acre Michigan homestead, spring coop prep is non-negotiable. First, a clean coop prevents disease and pests. Next, natural deterrents keep birds healthy without chemicals. Finally, it sets the flock up for strong egg production all season.
Today I’m sharing my step-by-step spring coop prep checklist — deep clean, natural pest deterrents, bedding refresh, and how to make your coop ready for spring.
Let’s get that coop shining — grab your gloves and let’s dive in.
Why Spring Coop Prep Is Critical
First, colder months build up dust, mites, and ammonia, which can cause respiratory issues. In addition, bugs like mites and flies explode in warmer weather. As a result, a thorough reset in early March prevents problems later. Finally, clean nesting boxes and fresh bedding mean cleaner eggs and happier hens.
My March Timeline
- Deep clean: March 1–15 (before chicks arrive)
- Pest deterrents: March 15–31
- Bedding refresh: ongoing
Step-by-Step Spring Coop Prep Checklist
1. Deep Clean (Days 1–2)
First, move the hens to a temporary run or barn. Next, shovel out all old bedding and scrape droppings from walls and roosts. Then, scrub everything with a 1:1 vinegar and water solution. Finally, let the coop air out completely on a sunny day.
2. Natural Pest Deterrents (Days 3–5)
First, dust roosts and corners with food-grade diatomaceous earth to dehydrate mites and lice. Next, fill fabric scraps with dried mint, lavender, and rosemary to make herb sachets and hang 2–3 in the coop. Then, mix cedar shavings into the new bedding for natural repellent. Finally, add crushed garlic to the waterer for internal pest control.
3. Bedding Refresh (Days 6–7)
First, add a 4–6 inch base layer of pine shavings or straw. Next, use the deep litter method by adding fresh layers weekly so it composts in place. Then, put fresh straw or pine needles in the nesting boxes. Finally, ensure good ventilation without drafts.
4. Roost & Nesting Box Check (Days 8–10)
First, sand roosts smooth and check for splinters. Next, add fake eggs to nesting boxes to encourage laying. Then, inspect fencing and runs for winter damage. Finally, clean waterers and feeders daily to prevent mud buildup.
Ongoing Maintenance
- Rake the coop weekly.
- Refresh herb sachets monthly.
- Monitor for mites by watching for dust bathing.
Farm Hack: Use pruned willow or pine branches as natural roost perches — they also help repel pests.
Natural Pest Deterrent Recipes
Herb Sachet
Fill fabric scraps with dried mint, lavender, and rosemary. Tie with twine and hang 2–3 in the coop. Refresh monthly.
Garlic Water
Crush 1 head of garlic into 1 gallon of water. Steep 24 hours and add to the waterer daily.
DE Dust Bath
Mix food-grade diatomaceous earth with sand or soil. Place in a shallow tray so hens can self-treat.
Quick-Reference Chart – Pest Deterrents
| Pest | Natural Deterrent | How to Use | Frequency |
| Mites/Lice | Diatomaceous Earth | Dust roosts and corners | Weekly |
| Flies | Cedar shavings | Mix into bedding | Monthly |
| Internal | Garlic water | In waterer | Daily |
| General | Herb sachets | Hang in coop | Monthly |
Shop the Coop Prep Pairing
- Bumps & Bruises Salve – (for coop chore hands)
- Laser-Engraved Slate Plant Markers – (pre-engraved with plant names + icons, ready for your garden)
- Muscle & Joint Salve
Shop Now →
Parent Tips
- Let kids help dust DE with safety goggles and a mask.
- Use the printable below to track your coop prep.
All printables are free images in the blog post. Generic version for your family to personalize and print.
A few of the items we mention link to things we actually use around the farm. Buying through those links sends a little support our way at no extra cost to you — thank you for helping keep Lange Girl Farms going!
Some links are affiliate links — I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Shop our farm-made goods → https://langegirlfarms.com/shop
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