I have 24 pullets, 16 weeks. Pen is 185 ft perimeter, irregular 2,000 sq ft. Area ended up half in grass, other half trampled down by building coop and some very sparsely grassed. I am in process of cross fencing 40% of it off and have cultivated it already for planting grass. Will plant creeping red fescue in shady ares and Ky 31 tall fescue in sunny areas.
My aim is to have as much grass as possible for the girls to eat so that the pen will be as close to free-range conditions as possible. I was told that no grass would survive including what is there now. I am wondering if 2,000 sq ft is enough for 24 pullets to grow and sustain grass, or if I am due to be disappointed?
I am certain that they get calcium from the grass and also living enzymes as well, not to mention that bugs feel safe if there is grass cover and are not likely to be found on bare ground.
My aim is to have as much grass as possible for the girls to eat so that the pen will be as close to free-range conditions as possible. I was told that no grass would survive including what is there now. I am wondering if 2,000 sq ft is enough for 24 pullets to grow and sustain grass, or if I am due to be disappointed?
I am certain that they get calcium from the grass and also living enzymes as well, not to mention that bugs feel safe if there is grass cover and are not likely to be found on bare ground.
