Need fast growing, idiot proof, fodder for chooks in tractor?

[PoultryPromulgator]

Hi folks,
I'm building a 5' x 10' moveable coop and my idea is to use a spot for a week then move them to a new spot that has already been seeded and is growing something that they enjoy eating and that is also a quality addition to their diet.

I hope to have either four or six plots to rotate them around so I need to be able to grow something really quickly from seed to something edible. Is this even possible? I suppose the best sort of thing would be something that left living roots behind after the chickens had eaten everything they could get at and for those roots to re-shoot rapidly. Now there is some sheer optimism for you.

Oh and a really important bit: Non-allergenic only!

 

[Rusty's Ranch]

I don't know about being non-allergenic, but we're going to try planting winter rye. Last year when we overseeded the front yard with it, it seemed to take off quickly. So when it cools off a bit, we're going to try seeding the back yard (now that the chickies have eaten just about all the grass back there). I'm also thinking about adding a small amount of clover to the mix and maybe wheat and barley grasses. But the winter rye for sure.

 

[PoultryPromulgator]

Thanks Rusty's Ranch. So are you also saying that of all the potential low growing leafy plant varieties that may be appropriate that grasses are still the preferred feed for them? Or that it was just something that you knew worked?

I'm really curious about what plants are known to be an excellent source of chicken-appropriate nutrients, that also happens to be easily and quickly grown.

 

[Rusty's Ranch]

I'm no expert, but since the birds have practically eaten all the grass, we figured why fight it ... just grow stuff they can eat. We've been researching pasture mixes and cover crops. Most of the seed companies aren't in our area, so I don't know if the plants are appropriate for our climate. I was going to wait until Sept to visit the local nursery.

A search for pasture seeds, farm seeds, cover crop seeds, even chicken pasture should turn up lots of info to help you out. Apparently these green foods can even increase the Omega 3's in your eggs!

Good luck -- when you find out what you'll be using, please post again so we can consider the same.

 

[Davaroo]

Quote:
Root crops such as beets, radishes, turnips and mustards.

 

[Judy]

The county extension agent should be able to help.