Edible Plant List

[redsix]

There was a link on here that showed a list of edible plants. I know that clover and dandelion was on the list, but can't remember much else. Can someone direct me to the link? Thanks.

 

[sunflour]

There are a number of lists and discussions on site and others, but this is the most inclusive on toxic plants: http://www.poultryhelp.com/toxic1.html

If you have a particular plant in mind, best to search on BYC or google to check it out.

 

[redsix]

Thanks for the link. This list says that clover and alfalfa is toxic. I've been feeding them clover and I'm pretty sure I read on this forum where some people feed alfalfa..

 

[DigMyChicks]

I give my chicks dandelions and clover...doesn't seem to bother them. They only eat the greens of the dandelion.

 

[sunflour]

Here's a couple of links regarding clover:

http://www.grit.com/animals/the-lowdown-on-feeding-clover-to-your-chickens.aspx

http://www.library.illinois.edu/vex/toxic/alsike/alsike.htm#references

IMO many of the toxic plant lists include plants not poultry specific, but if it is harmful to any animals or humans it appears on the lists. There is a lot more supporting evidence for dogs and cats than poultry.

But there are a number of food items we can eat that are not safe for our flocks. For many that can be toxic it can be parts of the plant/flower/seeds, or toxic only in certain stages of the plants growth. Most that are toxic require ingesting a large amount. Actually humans eat things that are toxic if eaten in large quantities as well - green tomatoes is the one that surprised me. I was quite concerned about having dumped apple cores with seeds in a compost I would like to let my hens have access to - it turns out they would have to gorge on the seeds to be at risk.

It is confusing to find one plant listed as toxic in some respected sources and listed as a great plant for foraging in others.

The danger does occur with feeding large amounts to confined chickens , but everyone tells us not to give excessive treats anyway

 

[redsix]

Thanks, I read the information that is in the link.