Raising chickens isn’t just about providing shelter and protection—it’s also about ensuring they get a well-balanced diet. While commercial feed is a staple, supplementing it with homegrown plants can improve their health, cut feed costs, and promote sustainable farming. Here are some of the best plants you can grow as chicken food.
Leafy Greens: A Vitamin-Packed Favorite
Leafy greens are among the easiest and most beneficial plants you can grow for your chickens. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support egg production, digestion, and overall health. Some of the best options include:
- Kale – Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, kale is a powerhouse for immune support and strong eggshells.
- Swiss chard – This hardy green provides ample calcium, iron, and fiber, all beneficial for egg-laying hens.
- Lettuce – An easy-to-grow option, lettuce is a hydrating treat, but should be given in moderation due to its lower nutritional content.
- Spinach – A nutrient-dense green, spinach is great in small amounts but should not be overfed due to its oxalate content, which can interfere with calcium absorption.
These leafy greens can be grown year-round in many climates, providing a fresh and nutritious food source for your flock.
Herbs for Health and Pest Control
Herbs not only enhance the flavor of our meals but also serve as natural health boosters for chickens. Many herbs have medicinal properties that aid in digestion, respiratory health, and parasite prevention. Consider growing these beneficial herbs:
- Oregano – Known for its antibacterial properties, oregano helps strengthen the immune system.
- Basil – Provides anti-inflammatory benefits and supports respiratory health.
- Parsley – A great source of vitamins A and C, parsley also helps improve blood circulation.
- Thyme – Acts as a natural antibiotic and promotes overall digestive health.
- Mint – Effective in repelling pests and soothing digestive issues.
Chickens enjoy pecking at fresh herbs, and adding them to their nesting boxes can also keep mites and insects at bay.
Grains and Seeds: Energy-Boosting Crops
Growing grains and seeds can provide chickens with a sustainable source of protein and energy. These crops are easy to cultivate and store for year-round feeding:
- Sunflowers – Sunflower seeds are a high-protein treat, and the plants also provide shade in hot weather.
- Amaranth – A highly nutritious grain that is easy to grow and can be used as a natural supplement to commercial feed.
- Millet – A favorite among chickens, millet is rich in fiber and B vitamins.
- Corn – While best as a winter treat due to its high carbohydrate content, corn is easy to grow and store for later use.
- Flaxseed – High in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed helps improve egg quality and provides essential nutrients.
These crops can be grown in large quantities and stored for the colder months, ensuring your chickens have a steady food supply.
Fruits and Vegetables: Nutritious and Hydrating Snacks
Incorporating fruits and vegetables into your chicken’s diet can provide hydration, vitamins, and variety. Some of the best options include:
- Pumpkins – Packed with vitamins and natural deworming properties, pumpkins are an excellent fall treat.
- Squash – Similar to pumpkins, squash is full of fiber and beta-carotene.
- Cucumbers – High in water content, cucumbers are a refreshing summer snack.
- Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offer antioxidants and essential nutrients.
- Tomatoes – While the fruit is safe, avoid feeding the leaves and stems as they contain solanine, which is toxic to chickens.
Growing these fruits and vegetables not only benefits your chickens but also enhances your own garden’s productivity.
Perennial Plants: Long-Term Sustainability
Perennial plants require minimal effort once established and can provide a consistent food source for chickens year after year. Some excellent choices include:
- Comfrey – High in protein and great for digestive health, comfrey is a regenerative plant that grows back quickly after cutting.
- Clover – A nitrogen-fixing plant that enhances soil health while serving as a protein-rich food source for chickens.
- Alfalfa – Often used as livestock feed, alfalfa is high in protein and beneficial nutrients.
- Mulberry trees – Chickens love the berries, and the leaves can also be eaten.
- Nettle – Rich in iron and calcium, nettle is a great supplement for egg-laying hens.
By growing perennials, you can ensure your chickens have an ongoing supply of natural, nutritious food with minimal maintenance.
Summary
Growing plants as chicken food is an excellent way to provide a natural, nutritious diet while reducing reliance on commercial feed. Leafy greens, herbs, grains, fruits, and perennials all offer unique benefits for your flock. By incorporating these into your garden, you’ll improve your chickens’ health, save money, and create a more sustainable farming system.
Joseph Hudson has been raising chickens for over 15 years. In 2018, he completed the Agriculture & Natural Resources program at Mt. San Antonio College. He currently raises over 1400 chickens on his 7.5-hectare farm. He keeps sharing his experience on raising healthy and happy chickens on Chicken Scratch The Foundry.
