Chickens are not just farm animals; they are also great companions for gardeners. They help control pests, provide natural fertilizer, and can even improve soil health. But what do chickens like to eat? If you’re considering letting your chickens roam in your garden or want to grow plants specifically for them, it’s important to know which plants they enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore the types of plants that chickens like to eat, so you can create a chicken-friendly garden.
Why Do Chickens Eat Plants?
Chickens are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. While they primarily feed on grains, insects, and small animals, they also enjoy a variety of plants. Here are some reasons why chickens eat plants:
- Nutrition: Plants provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are important for a chicken’s health.
- Variety: Chickens enjoy a diverse diet, and plants add variety to their meals.
- Foraging: Chickens are natural foragers and enjoy scratching and pecking at plants.
- Health Benefits: Some plants have medicinal properties that can help keep chickens healthy.
By understanding these reasons, you can make informed choices about which plants to grow for your chickens.
Chickens’ Favorite Vegetables
Vegetables are a great source of nutrition for chickens. Here are some vegetables that chickens love to eat:
1. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Lettuce is a favorite among chickens. It’s easy to grow and provides a good source of hydration. Chickens enjoy pecking at the leaves, and it’s a great way to add greens to their diet.
2. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica)
Kale is a nutrient-dense vegetable that chickens love. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides a good source of calcium. Chickens enjoy both the leaves and the stems.
3. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Spinach is another leafy green that chickens enjoy. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron and magnesium. Spinach is easy to grow and can be a regular part of your chickens’ diet.
Chickens’ Favorite Herbs
Herbs are not only beneficial for humans but also for chickens. Here are some herbs that chickens love to eat:
1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is a fragrant herb that chickens enjoy. It has antibacterial properties and can help improve digestion. Chickens love pecking at the leaves, and it’s easy to grow in your garden.
2. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Parsley is a nutrient-rich herb that chickens enjoy. It’s high in vitamins A and C and provides a good source of calcium. Chickens enjoy both the leaves and the stems.
3. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is a hardy herb that chickens love. It has antimicrobial properties and can help boost the immune system. Chickens enjoy pecking at the leaves, and it’s easy to grow in your garden.
Chickens’ Favorite Fruits
Fruits are a tasty treat for chickens and provide a good source of vitamins and minerals. Here are some fruits that chickens love to eat:
1. Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)
Watermelon is a favorite summer treat for chickens. It’s hydrating and provides a good source of vitamins A and C. Chickens enjoy pecking at the flesh and seeds.
2. Strawberries (Fragaria spp.)
Strawberries are a sweet treat that chickens enjoy. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Chickens love pecking at the fruit, and it’s easy to grow in your garden.
3. Apples (Malus domestica)
Apples are a nutritious fruit that chickens enjoy. They are rich in vitamins and fiber. Chickens love pecking at the flesh, but make sure to remove the seeds, as they can be toxic.
Chickens’ Favorite Grains and Seeds
Grains and seeds are a staple in a chicken’s diet. Here are some grains and seeds that chickens love to eat:
1. Corn (Zea mays)
Corn is a favorite grain among chickens. It’s high in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy. Chickens enjoy pecking at the kernels, and it’s easy to grow in your garden.
2. Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus annuus)
Sunflower seeds are a nutritious treat that chickens enjoy. They are rich in protein and healthy fats. Chickens love pecking at the seeds, and they are easy to grow in your garden.
3. Wheat (Triticum spp.)
Wheat is a staple grain that chickens enjoy. It’s high in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy. Chickens enjoy pecking at the grains, and it’s easy to grow in your garden.
Chickens’ Favorite Flowers
Flowers are not just beautiful; they can also be a tasty treat for chickens. Here are some flowers that chickens love to eat:
1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are a favorite flower among chickens. They are rich in antioxidants and can help improve the color of egg yolks. Chickens enjoy pecking at the petals, and they are easy to grow in your garden.
2. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)
Nasturtiums are a colorful flower that chickens enjoy. They are rich in vitamins and minerals and have antimicrobial properties. Chickens love pecking at the flowers and leaves.
3. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Calendula is a medicinal flower that chickens enjoy. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve skin health. Chickens enjoy pecking at the petals, and it’s easy to grow in your garden.
Tips for Creating a Chicken-Friendly Garden
While planting chicken-friendly plants is a great start, there are additional steps you can take to create a garden that your chickens will love:
Provide Shade: Chickens need shade to stay cool during hot weather. Planting trees or shrubs can provide natural shade for your chickens.
Create Dust Baths: Chickens love to take dust baths to keep their feathers clean and free of parasites. Providing a designated area with loose soil or sand can encourage this behavior.
Rotate Grazing Areas: Rotating your chickens’ grazing areas can help prevent overgrazing and keep your plants healthy. This also allows the soil to recover and reduces the risk of parasites.
Use Chicken-Friendly Mulch: Using mulch made from straw or wood chips can help keep your garden soil healthy and provide a comfortable surface for your chickens to scratch and peck.
Protect Young Plants: Young plants can be vulnerable to chickens’ scratching and pecking. Using protective barriers or fencing can help protect young plants until they are established.
Conclusion
Chickens are wonderful additions to any garden, and knowing what plants they like to eat can help you create a chicken-friendly environment. Vegetables like lettuce, kale, and spinach, herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano, fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and apples, grains and seeds like corn, sunflower seeds, and wheat, and flowers like marigolds, nasturtiums, and calendula are all great choices for your chickens. Additionally, providing shade, creating dust baths, rotating grazing areas, using chicken-friendly mulch, and protecting young plants can further enhance your garden’s appeal to chickens.
By incorporating these plants and tips into your garden, you can create a thriving environment that both you and your chickens will enjoy. Happy gardening!
