Helpppp

[chickenman4131]

I'm new to chicken farming and I noticed all my grass in my chicken run is gone! I need organic eggs. How do you get grass back in your chicken run? I think my chickens will eat grass seed. I'm stuck and need help.

 

[14hens1cockerel]

The only way to tackle this problem is to separate the run. Basically, you keep chickens in one part and let the grass grow in the other then move the chickens on the grass, etc. and it can help to plant some grass seed because the chickens may have destroyed the roots.
Hope this helps,
14hens1cockerel

 

[Cindy in PA]

Unless you have a very large run, you will never keep grass or anything else in it.

 

[Hooligans7]

@chickenman4131, all responders are correct. Similar to providing green pasture for cattle and rotating the pastures to allow for recovery, your flock needs fresh pasture as well. Can you construct another run with healthy greens so you can replant the first run? Ideally, at least three pastures should be in constant rotation.

Also, consider planting forage that is more robust and far more nutritious than ornamental turf grass. In the meantime you can allow them to free range if possible, and/or provide tender greens and *fresh* organic grass clippings (never moldy, and no chemicals!)
Google "forage plants for chickens" for lots of good info.

 

[Kazfam]

Our run is rather large and in the woods. My son keeps a good level of leaf and grass litter in it which seems to make the girls very happy.
Keeps the ground moist and full of little creatures (for them to eat), gives the hens lots to scratch, make fantastic compost (with the added chicken droppings). He scoops out the old and adds new periodically. The old goes right into my compost bins which are strategically located next to the coop/run.

And I agree with offering foraged greens - find out what grows wild in your area and pick away - especially if you have an organic garden you want to keep free from weeds. Pick and feed to your chickens - satisfies their green food need.

 

[chad-o]

The only way I could ever get grass in my run would be to get rid of the chickens! LOL