What to Plant in Your Chicken Run for Pest Control and More

AvatarByArthur Cook Planting

What to Plant in a Chicken Run

Chickens are a great addition to any homestead, providing fresh eggs, meat, and manure. But what do you plant in a chicken run to keep your birds happy and healthy?

In this article, we’ll discuss the best plants to grow in a chicken run, including herbs, vegetables, and fruits. We’ll also cover how to plant and care for these plants, so you can create a thriving ecosystem that benefits both your chickens and your garden.

So if you’re ready to start growing your own chicken-friendly plants, read on!

Plant Benefits Tips
Marigolds Attract beneficial insects, repel pests Plant at the edges of the run
Chives Provide a source of food and shelter for chickens Grow in a pot or raised bed
Clover Provides a nitrogen-rich fertilizer Plant in the run or around the perimeter
Nasturtiums Attract beneficial insects, repel pests Plant at the edges of the run
Borage Provides a source of food and shelter for chickens Grow in a pot or raised bed
Dill Attract beneficial insects, repel pests Plant at the edges of the run

Chicken runs are a great way to provide your chickens with fresh food and a place to roam. They can also be a beautiful addition to your backyard. However, it’s important to make sure that you plant the right vegetables and fruits in your chicken run so that they will thrive.

In this article, we will discuss the best vegetables and fruits to plant in a chicken run. We will also provide tips on how to plant and care for your crops.

Vegetables to Plant in Chicken Run

The following vegetables are all great choices for a chicken run:

  • Leafy greens: Lettuce, kale, spinach, Swiss chard, collard greens
  • Root vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, radishes, turnips, beets
  • Squash and pumpkins: Summer squash, winter squash, pumpkins
  • Other vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, peas

These vegetables are all relatively easy to grow, and they provide your chickens with a variety of nutrients. Leafy greens are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron. Root vegetables are a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Squash and pumpkins are a good source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, and peas are all a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

When planting vegetables in a chicken run, it’s important to choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases. You should also plant them in a location that gets plenty of sunlight.

Fruits to Plant in Chicken Run

The following fruits are all great choices for a chicken run:

  • Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries
  • Stone fruits: Peaches, plums, cherries, nectarines
  • Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes
  • Other fruits: Apples, pears, grapes, melons

These fruits are all a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are also a delicious treat for your chickens.

When planting fruits in a chicken run, it’s important to choose varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases. You should also plant them in a location that gets plenty of sunlight.

Tips for Planting and Caring for Vegetables and Fruits in a Chicken Run

Here are a few tips for planting and caring for vegetables and fruits in a chicken run:

  • Choose the right location. The best location for a chicken run is one that gets plenty of sunlight. It should also be well-drained, so that the roots of your plants don’t get waterlogged.
  • Prepare the soil. Before you plant your vegetables and fruits, you need to prepare the soil. This means tilling the soil to loosen it up and removing any rocks or debris. You should also add compost or fertilizer to the soil to improve its nutrient content.
  • Plant your vegetables and fruits. When planting your vegetables and fruits, it’s important to space them out properly. This will allow them to grow to their full potential and prevent them from competing for resources.
  • Water your plants regularly. Vegetables and fruits need regular watering in order to grow properly. You should water them deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the weather is hot or dry.
  • Fertilize your plants regularly. Fertilizing your plants will help them to grow strong and healthy. You should fertilize them every few weeks, or according to the directions on the fertilizer package.
  • Protect your plants from pests and diseases. Pests and diseases can damage your plants and reduce their yield. You can protect your plants from pests and diseases by spraying them with a water-soluble insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also prevent diseases by watering your plants in the morning so that the leaves have time to dry before nightfall.

Planting vegetables and fruits in a chicken run is a great way to provide your chickens with fresh food and a beautiful addition to your backyard. By following these tips, you can successfully grow a variety of crops that your chickens will love to eat.

Herbs to Plant in Chicken Run

Herbs are a great way to add flavor and nutrients to your chickens’ diet. They are also a natural way to repel pests and attract beneficial insects. Some of the best herbs to plant in a chicken run include:

  • Basil is a popular herb that is known for its culinary and medicinal properties. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Basil also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Cilantro is another popular herb that is often used in Mexican and Asian cuisine. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Cilantro also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Dill is a herb that is often used to flavor pickles and other pickled foods. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Dill also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Oregano is a herb that is often used in Italian cuisine. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Oregano also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Parsley is a herb that is often used as a garnish. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Parsley also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Rosemary is a herb that is often used in Mediterranean cuisine. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Rosemary also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Sage is a herb that is often used in poultry dishes. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Sage also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.
  • Thyme is a herb that is often used in soups and stews. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Thyme also contains antioxidants that can help to protect chickens from disease.

In addition to providing nutritional benefits, herbs can also help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects. For example, basil, cilantro, dill, and parsley can help to repel mosquitoes and flies. Oregano, rosemary, sage, and thyme can help to repel aphids, mites, and other pests. Marigolds and lavender can help to attract bees and other pollinators.

When planting herbs in a chicken run, it is important to choose varieties that are hardy and tolerant of the local climate. It is also important to plant the herbs in a location that receives plenty of sunlight. Herbs can be planted in the ground, in raised beds, or in containers.

When harvesting herbs for your chickens, it is important to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. You can then chop the herbs and add them to your chickens’ feed or water. You can also dry the herbs and store them in an airtight container for later use.

Herbs are a great way to add flavor and nutrients to your chickens’ diet. They are also a natural way to repel pests and attract beneficial insects. By planting a variety of herbs in your chicken run, you can help to keep your chickens healthy and happy.

Flowers to Plant in Chicken Run

Flowers are a beautiful addition to any chicken run, and they can also provide a number of benefits for your chickens. Flowers can help to attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which can help to pollinate your plants. They can also help to repel pests, such as mosquitoes and flies. And, of course, flowers can simply add a touch of beauty to your chicken run.

When choosing flowers to plant in your chicken run, it is important to choose varieties that are hardy and tolerant of the local climate. It is also important to choose varieties that are not poisonous to chickens. Some flowers that are safe for chickens to eat include sunflowers, marigolds, petunias, lavender, chrysanthemums, dahlias, roses, and zinnias.

When planting flowers in your chicken run, it is important to plant them in a location that receives plenty of sunlight. You should also make sure that the flowers are planted in well-drained soil.

When harvesting flowers for your chickens, it is important to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. You can then chop the flowers and add them to your chickens’ feed or water. You can also dry the flowers and store them in an airtight container for later use.

Flowers are a great way

What plants should I avoid planting in my chicken run?

  • Poisonous plants, such as nightshade, foxglove, and oleander, can be harmful to chickens if they eat them.
  • Spicy plants, such as chives, garlic, and onions, can cause digestive upset in chickens.
  • Medicinal plants, such as mint, sage, and rosemary, can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from chicken feed.
  • Weeds, such as dandelions and thistles, can compete with chickens for food and water.

What plants are safe for chickens to eat?

  • Grain crops, such as corn, wheat, and oats, are a good source of energy for chickens.
  • Leafy greens, such as lettuce, kale, and spinach, are a good source of vitamins and minerals.
  • Fruits, such as apples, pears, and berries, are a good source of sweetness and fiber.
  • Vegetables, such as carrots, tomatoes, and cucumbers, are a good source of vitamins and minerals.

How much should I plant in my chicken run?

The amount of plants you plant in your chicken run will depend on the size of your run and the number of chickens you have. A good rule of thumb is to plant enough plants so that chickens can eat their fill at all times.

How do I plant plants in my chicken run?

To plant plants in your chicken run, you will need to:

1. Choose a sunny spot in your run.
2. Dig holes that are deep enough to accommodate the roots of the plants.
3. Plant the plants in the holes and water them well.
4. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and keep weeds out.

How do I care for plants in my chicken run?

To care for plants in your chicken run, you will need to:

  • Water the plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
  • Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and keep weeds out.
  • Fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune the plants as needed to keep them healthy and productive.

What benefits do plants provide for chickens?

Plants provide a number of benefits for chickens, including:

  • Food: Chickens can eat a variety of plants, including grains, leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Shelter: Plants can provide shelter from the sun, rain, and wind.
  • Enrichment: Plants can provide chickens with a source of entertainment and enrichment.
  • Health: Plants can help to improve the health of chickens by providing them with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

What are some common problems with planting plants in a chicken run?

Some common problems with planting plants in a chicken run include:

  • Chickens eating the plants: Chickens can be very destructive and may eat all of the plants in your run.
  • Weeds competing with the plants: Weeds can compete with the plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight.
  • Diseases and pests: Plants can be susceptible to diseases and pests, which can damage or kill them.

How can I avoid problems with planting plants in a chicken run?

To avoid problems with planting plants in a chicken run, you can:

  • Choose plants that are resistant to chickens eating them.
  • Plant the plants in a spot where they will not be shaded by trees or buildings.
  • Water the plants regularly and fertilize them as needed.
  • Monitor the plants for signs of diseases or pests and treat them accordingly.

    there are many different plants that can be grown in a chicken run, and the best plants for your specific situation will depend on your climate, the size of your run, and the needs of your chickens. By considering these factors, you can create a chicken run that is both functional and beautiful, and that provides your chickens with the fresh, healthy food they need.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.