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Raising backyard chickens is a rewarding experience that provides fresh eggs and natural pest control. One way to enhance your chicken coop environment is by planting chicken-friendly plants that offer shade, food, and enrichment. Finding the right plants can be challenging, but luckily, several online nurseries specialize in chicken-safe plants suitable for your backyard.
Why Choose Chicken-Friendly Plants?
Chicken-friendly plants are safe for your flock and can improve their living space. These plants provide natural shade, reduce stress, and offer foraging opportunities. Additionally, they can help create a more sustainable and eco-friendly backyard environment.
Top Online Nurseries for Chicken-Friendly Plants
- Backyard Chickens: Specializes in plants safe for chickens, including herbs and native plants.
- Plant Delights Nursery: Offers a variety of native and edible plants that are safe for poultry.
- Nature Hills Nursery: Provides a selection of trees, shrubs, and perennials suitable for chicken coops.
- Eden Brothers: Focuses on herbs and flowers that are non-toxic to chickens.
- Burpee: Offers a wide range of vegetables, herbs, and flowers safe for backyard chickens.
Popular Chicken-Friendly Plants
Some of the best plants to grow around your chicken coop include:
- Sunflowers: Provide shade and seeds for chickens.
- Herbs: Such as basil, oregano, and thyme; safe and beneficial for chickens.
- Native grasses: Offer natural foraging and ground cover.
- Marigolds: Repel pests and are non-toxic to chickens.
- Berry bushes: Such as raspberry and blackberry; provide treats and shelter.
Tips for Growing Chicken-Friendly Plants
When planting chicken-friendly plants, consider the following tips:
- Ensure plants are non-toxic and safe for poultry.
- Plant in shaded areas to provide relief from heat.
- Use organic soil and avoid pesticides that could harm your chickens.
- Incorporate a variety of plants to promote biodiversity and foraging.
- Regularly check plants for pests and health to keep your flock safe.
Conclusion
Adding chicken-friendly plants to your backyard can enhance your flock’s environment, improve their health, and make your coop more sustainable. Explore the best online nurseries to find the perfect plants for your space and enjoy a thriving, chicken-friendly garden.