What Plants Do Chickens Not Eat

What Plants Do Chickens Not Eat?

Chickens are known for their voracious appetite and are often seen pecking and scratching at anything that catches their eye. However, there are certain plants that chickens tend to avoid due to their taste, texture, or toxicity. If you’re a backyard chicken owner or considering raising chickens, it’s important to be aware of what plants chickens do not eat to ensure their safety and maintain a healthy diet. Here are some plants that chickens typically avoid:

1. Mint: Chickens are not big fans of mint, as the strong scent and flavor can be overwhelming for them.

2. Lavender: Similar to mint, lavender’s strong scent deters chickens from eating it.

3. Marigold: Chickens tend to avoid marigolds due to their strong taste, making them a great addition to your garden as a natural pest repellent.

4. Geranium: The smell and taste of geraniums are unappealing to chickens, making it a safe plant to have around them.

5. Lamb’s ear: The fuzzy texture of lamb’s ear leaves is not favored by chickens, so they typically avoid munching on it.

6. Chives: Chickens tend to avoid chives due to their strong onion-like flavor.

7. Daffodils: Daffodils contain toxins that are harmful to chickens, which naturally keeps them away from these plants.

FAQs:

1. Are there any poisonous plants that chickens should avoid entirely?
Yes, there are several poisonous plants that chickens should avoid, including foxglove, nightshade, azaleas, and rhubarb leaves.

2. Can chickens eat grass?
Yes, chickens can eat grass and it is actually a natural part of their diet. However, make sure the grass is free from pesticides and fertilizers.

3. Can chickens eat fruits and vegetables?
Yes, chickens can eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, watermelon, lettuce, and carrots. Just make sure to remove any seeds or pits that could be harmful.

4. Can chickens eat tomatoes?
Tomatoes themselves are not toxic to chickens, but the leaves and stems contain solanine, a toxic substance. It is best to avoid feeding them the green parts of the plant.

5. Can chickens eat flowers?
Yes, chickens can eat certain flowers, such as sunflowers, nasturtiums, and pansies, which provide added nutrients.

6. Can chickens eat herbs?
Yes, chickens can eat herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme. Herbs can also provide health benefits and enhance the flavor of their eggs.

7. Can chickens eat weeds?
Chickens can eat many types of weeds, such as dandelions, chickweed, and plantain. Weeds can provide a source of vitamins and minerals for chickens.

By being aware of what plants chickens do not eat, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your feathered friends. Providing a varied diet and ensuring access to fresh water will help keep your chickens happy and thriving.