How to Grow Grass in a Chicken Coop Run: The Best Solutions for Chickens
Growing grass in a chicken coop run is nearly impossible due to chickens eating grass and grass seeds. However, there are effective and practical solutions that can provide your backyard chickens with both a fresh lawn to scratch and plenty of nutrition. This article explores the best methods for growing grass in a chicken coop run and includes tips on portable pens, such as chicken tractors, and utilizing lawn clippings.
1. Understanding Why Chickens Eat Grass
Chickens are natural foragers and will eat grass and grass seeds readily. If any grass seed manages to germinate, it will quickly be consumed by the chickens. Concrete flooring is ideal for a permanent chicken coop as it provides a barrier against predators and is easy to clean. However, for a grassy area, a portable chicken pen called a chicken tractor is a better solution.
2. Introduction to Chicken Tractors
A chicken tractor is a portable chicken pen that can be moved frequently to provide your chickens with fresh grass and a variety of foraging opportunities. Chicken tractors are versatile, coming in different shapes and sizes. You can find ideas and plans to build your own or purchase from various suppliers. Moving the chicken tractor daily or every other day ensures that the grass is not consumed and can grow to a sufficient length before the chickens have access to it.
3. Building a Chicken Tractor from Scratch
To build a simple chicken tractor, follow these steps:
Say, for instance, that you want to use 2x2 boards measuring 8 feet long. Construct a frame using these boards. Optionally, you can cover one side of the frame with chicken wire. This provides your chickens with a barrier to keep them contained.
Position the chicken tractor in your run with the wire side up. This placement not only protects the chickens but also allows you to easily water and seed the area.
Sprinkle grass seeds into the open side, ensuring adequate coverage. Water the area to help the seeds germinate and the grass grow.
Once the grass reaches a manageable length (about 3-4 inches), the chickens can start foraging without damaging the grass too severely. The partial coverage of wire allows them to pick at the blades of grass but prevents them from reaching the roots.
4. Alternative Methods Using Containers
An alternative method is to fill a bucket or container with soil, grow grass seeds in it, and then place chicken wire on top. This container can be placed in the chicken run or coop. The chickens can peck at the blades of grass without being able to reach the roots. This method requires frequent monitoring to ensure the grass is not overgrazed.
5. Utilizing Lawn Clippings
For an easier and more sustainable solution, collect fresh lawn clippings from mowing your lawn. These clippings can be used as a mulch in the chicken run, providing a fresh and nutrient-rich environment for your chickens. You can also scatter grass clippings directly on the run, giving your chickens a tasty treat while also enriching the soil.
In summary, while growing grass in a chicken coop run is challenging, using portable chicken tractors and incorporating lawn clippings can provide your chickens with a fresh and nutritious environment without the risk of grass consumption. These methods not only benefit your chickens but also enhance the overall health and productivity of your chicken coop.