Herb Garden

[FoothillChicks]

Has anyone grown a herb garden on the outside fence of the chicken coop? Thinking of growing Mint, Parsley, Coriander, Nasturtium and as they spread close enough to the fence, the chickens can peck at it and eat it natural as well as giving done as the plants are trimmed etc. Thank you

In Australia so names may be different. They are definatly all safe the varieties I have listed

 

[Weeg]

I think thats a great idea! Herbs are great for chickens, especially Oregano! Nasturtiums are a good idea. I've considered doing something similar, though haven't had the moment to build it between projects yet. My coops are tractors, so I would need a planter box.
Interested to see how your project goes!

 

[aart]

the chickens can peck at it and eat it natural as well as giving done as the plants are trimmed etc.

How big are the holes in your fencing?
I know they could reach about 6" thru my 2x4" fencing.

In Australia

Here's how to add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, and then it's always there!

 

[Hermits Garden]

I'm growing herbs around the run, but the 1/2" HWC apron will keep them from being able to "prune". I'll have to cut it and bring it in. I do plan a Salad Bar--just a shallow frame w/ a walkable screened top--for inside the run.

On the outside, I have seeds for oregano, mint, nasturtium, cosmos, sunflowers, and peas. I'll have to plant the seeds into the HWC apron, but I don't think that'll be difficult.

Your chickens are lucky to have a buffet!

 

[MadGardener]

I highly recommend yarrow and comfrey. My gals go bonkers over both!

 

[rosemarythyme]

I have a raised bed right behind my run, where I grow peas. As they trellis up the run wall the chickens can hop/stretch up and pick off bits of leaves (there's hardware cloth on the lower portion of the fence, for some predator protection and to keep the chickens from just ripping the plants apart completely), and sometimes I shell peas and toss those into the run as well.

I've grown carrots there before as well and the chickens will walk by during free range time and eat off the tips of fronds.

 

[Gammas Bearded Babies]

Luv this idea!
Are nasturtiums.safe for chickens to eat?
I've been going by this link someone in byc had shared and I don't see them in there.
http://www.poultrydvm.com/nontoxic.php

 

[rosemarythyme]

Luv this idea!
Are nasturtiums.safe for chickens to eat?
I've been going by this link someone in byc had shared and I don't see them in there.
http://www.poultrydvm.com/nontoxic.php

Nasturtiums are safe for humans to eat (they taste pretty neutral, but look nice mixed into a salad), so I assume they're safe for chickens as well. That said, I did test them on my chickens and they wouldn't eat either leaves or flowers.

 

[David61]

Hey! My sweet basil just came up from seed and i need to plant it somewhere. Its now going under the nest boxes. I have 1/2 HC.