When it comes to selecting the best herbs to grow for chickens, you will find that there are a number of considerations to make. For starters, you need to determine whether or not your local climate is one that would support a large flock of chickens. Also, you should consider the extent of your knowledge when it comes to growing herbs. It is also important to understand the differences in growing herbs and understanding how each one performs in your garden.
When it comes to determining the best herbs to grow for chickens, you will notice that there are two different categories based upon the type of environment they require. First off, there are herbs that are more drought tolerant and require less water. This means that your plants will be able to survive even during times of heavy rain or snowfall. These include basil, chives, dill, fennel, coriander, tarragon, and thyme. On the other hand, you have those that are more water hungry and requires more watering.
The first category that these herbs belong to include mints, tarragon, sage, and bay. There are many other herbs in this category such as cardamom, marjoram, sassafras, fennel, and basil. These herbs need approximately one inch of water per week during the growing season and will grow just as well with minimal attention as mints.
On the flip side of the coin, you have those herbs that are highly water hungry and requires a lot of water. On this list include alfalfa, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, kale, mint, parsley, Rosemary, and strawberries. These are some of the most thirsty herbs to grow for chickens and you will have to water them at least twice a day. This is especially true for those herbs that have a tendency to grow taller than others. Cucumbers, alfalfa, cabbage, kale, Rosemary, and strawberries are all perfect for this situation.
On the other hand, the second group of herbs to grow for chickens includes those that are drought resistant. This includes alfalfa, basil, cilantro, chives, fennel, mint, sage, and sweet basil. This is because they do not need a lot of water or sunlight to survive and many of them are herbaceous so they can even thrive in the shade during the hot summer months.
One last group of herbs that you might want to consider growing are those that are ornamental. This means those that add color and interest to your lawn or garden. This includes bay leaves, daffodils, forget-me-nots, gladioli, irises, jasmine, laurel, mums, petunias, Rosemary, and scented herbs like myrrh, lavender, and sandalwood. While most ornamental herbs come in the class of annuals, there are a few perennials that are available all year long such as burdock, marigold, and spearmint. In addition to being able to provide color and interest, these herbs are also good for your chickens as they help keep them healthy and disease free.
When choosing which herbs to grow for chickens, remember that it’s best to choose those that are easy to grow and harvest. Chickens love eating alfalfa but it can become hard for them to get at it. If you have cabbages that are easy to harvest, then you can harvest alfalfa as well. And if you have roses, then you will probably want to plant some for your chickens. However, if you want to have your chickens eating the best herbs to grow for chickens, make sure that they are not hard to find and are easy to harvest as well.
Once you have chosen which the best herbs to grow for chickens are, remember that it is important to be consistent with your watering, feeding, and other herb care techniques. Chickens require fresh and clean water at all times and it’s important to give them this every day. Also, always check that the soil is dry before you plow it. This will help your chickens have the best growing environment possible.