Grass Clippings

[joshram]

Since I can't free range my chickens due to predators I was wondering if that when I cut the grass could I give my chickens the grass clippings?

 

[pdirt]

Small amounts of grass clippings are okay. Too much could lead to crop impaction issues. Alternative would be to dig up a piece off sod. That way they can nibble off a tiny piece rather than gobble down as long piece of grass. If your grass clippings are pretty short, that would be better than long ones.

You could also build a "chicken garden" in a part of their run that gets sun and rain. This is a frame on the ground covered in chicken wire. Grow some greens in there, they can nibble but can't scratch to dig up the roots, so they will keep growing back.

 

[joshram]

What can I plant in the "chicken garden"?

 

[lynnehd]

What can I plant in the "chicken garden"?

You can go out and buy packets of seeds that include Turnip (they love the greens), Kale, Clover, Broccoli, Mustard, Radish, and so on. Even weed seeds like Plantain, Chicory, Dandelion, etc. You can add some grass or grain seeds.
Mix them up in a plastic bag altogether, an sprinkle over the soil in the chicken garden. Water well.
You feed the sprouts when they are short.
When they are 2-3 inches tall, let them have at it!

It's nice if you have more than one framed area (even 2'x2' each), so you can stagger the seeding.

Here is an example of a pre packaged one (again, feed the sprouts when they are short so they digest more easily).
http://www.groworganic.com/omega-3-chicken-forage-blend-irrigated.html

 

[joshram]

Do I have to cover the seeds with dirt?

 

[lynnehd]

Do I have to cover the seeds with dirt?

I do.
I loosen up, smooth out the soil in the box. Sprinkle the seeds over the surface. Pat down.
Then cover with 1/4 to 1/2" of well drained soil (I just get a bag of ACE brand topsoil- no additives, but any brand will do).

You can also just remove some of the dirt that is in the box, sprinkle the seeds, and use this dirt to cover.
Remember, less dirt over the seeds is better than too much.

 

[joshram]

Thanks everyone for your help.