Winter-warm plastic greenhouses were initially designed for growing vegetables and crops. However, by properly raising chickens during the winter and spring seasons—when prices are favorable and temperatures are lower—it's possible to take advantage of the fast-growing, short-cycle broiler production. During periods when vegetable prices are high, the greenhouses can be converted back to grow off-season vegetables. After raising the chickens, their fermented manure and bedding can be used as organic fertilizer for the vegetables, reducing environmental pollution and increasing nutrient efficiency. This integrated system makes full use of the greenhouse space and creates a sustainable cycle with better economic returns.
First, it’s essential to properly renovate the greenhouse. The renovated structure should meet the needs of broiler farming in terms of ventilation, insulation, and humidity control, while also making daily tasks like feeding, cleaning, and disease prevention easier.
1. Align the greenhouse along an east-west axis. Replace the south-facing slope of the north wall with horizontal cement boards, leaving some space for ventilation.
2. Install foot membranes to ensure proper moisture and airflow based on the chickens’ developmental stages.
3. Connect bamboo rafters to the north-south steel rods, aligning them flush with the north wall. Cover with plastic film and straw curtains. Part of the straw curtain should hang down slightly, and vents should be appropriately sealed. In summer, weeds and rainproof membranes are laid over the sheds to provide shade and prevent overheating. These should remain in place during other seasons but must be protected from rain in winter and spring to avoid rotting. Wind protection is also important—use film lines to secure the rainproof sheets and prevent them from being blown away.
Second, prepare the brooding area:
1. Level the ground and compact it. Raise the ground if needed and install anti-escape barriers. Use netting for floor-based breeding, ensuring the height allows easy removal of waste. Typically, the net height is 1–1.3 meters wide and 2–3 meters long, with walkways in between.
2. Ensure all necessary equipment is ready: check heating and lighting systems, install thermometers and hygrometers, clean and disinfect all chicken supplies, and dry them before placing them in the greenhouse.
3. Perform thorough disinfection using formalin and potassium permanganate fumigation at a ratio of 15ml formalin + 7.5g potassium permanganate per cubic meter. Seal the vents during fumigation and maintain adequate humidity. For hard-to-reach areas, spray lime water or other disinfectants to ensure complete coverage.
4. Prepare common medications, vaccines, and feed. The main goal during the brooding phase is to maximize chick survival and weight gain. Use plastic film to create a small brooding area on the floor, gradually expanding it as the chicks grow.
Third, implement feeding and management practices:
1. Warm up the greenhouse 48 hours in advance and remove any excess moisture. Two days before hatching, adjust temperature and humidity to 35°C and 65–70% in the broiler area.
2. Temperature requirements vary by age: 35°C for the first 3 days, 35–32°C at one week, 32–29°C for two weeks, 29–27°C for three weeks, 27–24°C for four weeks, and 21–18°C after 18 weeks. Gradually reduce the temperature based on the comfort of the chickens. Avoid large fluctuations, especially in early spring and winter.
3. Humidity should be kept around 65–70% for the first 21 days and 60–65% afterward.
4. Light intensity should be about 25 watts per 10 square meters for the first 48 hours, then 23 hours of light per day. After 21 days, reduce to 16 hours of light and 8 hours of darkness, adjusting based on season and time. Install lights every 5–8 meters, using different wattage and colors as needed.
5. Provide continuous water, especially warm water with added electrolytes for young chicks. Feed six times a day in the first week, decreasing to four times in the second week and three times in the third week. Use larger trays to minimize feed waste and keep drinking fountains and feed drums clean.
6. Ventilation is crucial for oxygen supply and removing harmful gases. Ensure proper airflow while protecting chickens from drafts. In hot weather, increase ventilation and consider cooling methods like baking soda solutions or cool water sprays.
7. Maintain strict biosecurity: limit access to the shed, regularly clean excrement, and keep the environment hygienic. Isolate sick or dead chickens, and dispose of them properly. Keep the caretaker’s shoes and clothes clean when entering or exiting the greenhouse.
8. Follow a vaccination schedule tailored to local conditions. For example, vaccinate against Newcastle disease at 7 days, infectious bursal disease at 14 days, and repeat Newcastle disease at 28 days. Add stress-reducing supplements to drinking water before and after vaccination, and use cold boiled water mixed with skim milk to extend vaccine effectiveness.
Finally, keep detailed records of all activities to monitor progress, identify issues, and make timely adjustments. This approach ensures efficient and effective broiler management within the greenhouse system.
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