Chicken runs provide an ideal space for hens to roam, scratch, and engage in natural behaviors. By incorporating carefully selected plants into these areas, chicken owners can enhance the environment and promote the health of their flock. The right plants offer multiple benefits, from providing shade and shelter to serving as a nutritious food source.

Growing specific plants in a chicken run can significantly improve the well-being of hens while also enhancing the overall aesthetics of the space. These plants can offer protection from predators, reduce coop odors, and even help control pests naturally. Selecting the appropriate vegetation ensures a symbiotic relationship between the plants and chickens, creating a more sustainable and enriching habitat for the flock.

1) Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are vibrant, edible flowers that make an excellent addition to any chicken run. These colorful plants are easy to grow and provide multiple benefits for hens.

Chickens can safely consume all parts of the nasturtium plant, including flowers, leaves, and stems. The flowers are rich in vitamin C, offering a nutritional boost to the flock’s diet.

Nasturtiums act as natural pest deterrents, helping to keep harmful insects away from the chicken run. Their sprawling growth habit also provides ground cover, creating shaded areas for hens to rest and explore.

These plants are low-maintenance and thrive in various soil conditions. They can be grown directly in the chicken run or in pots placed around the area.

Nasturtiums’ trailing vines can be trained to grow up fences or trellises, adding visual interest to the chicken run while maximizing space. This vertical growth also creates additional foraging opportunities for the hens.

2) Chamomile

Chamomile is a versatile and beneficial plant for chicken runs. This herb offers multiple advantages for both the chickens and their environment.

Chamomile plants provide a natural, calming atmosphere in the chicken run. The plant’s pleasant aroma can help reduce stress among the flock, promoting a more peaceful environment.

Chickens enjoy pecking at chamomile flowers and leaves, which offer nutritional benefits. The herb contains antioxidants and has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can support chicken health.

Chamomile is relatively easy to grow and maintain in a chicken run. It thrives in most climates and can be planted from seeds or young plants for faster coverage.

This herb also acts as a natural pest repellent. Its strong scent can deter certain insects, contributing to a more comfortable space for the chickens.

Chamomile’s fragrant flowers can help mask unpleasant odors often associated with chicken coops. This feature makes it a practical choice for runs near residential areas.

3) Calendula

Calendula is an excellent addition to any chicken run. This vibrant, orange-yellow flowering plant offers multiple benefits for hens and their environment.

Calendula flowers are edible and provide a nutritious treat for chickens. The petals contain vitamins A and C, as well as other beneficial compounds that support hen health.

These hardy annuals are easy to grow and can thrive in various climates. They tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making them adaptable to different chicken run layouts.

Calendula plants attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the chicken run ecosystem. This can help with natural pest control and pollination.

The flowers have mild antimicrobial properties, which may contribute to maintaining a healthier environment for the chickens. Hens can enjoy pecking at the plants, promoting natural foraging behaviors.

Calendula is also known for its ability to self-seed, ensuring a continuous supply of plants in the chicken run with minimal effort from the caretaker.

4) Fennel

Fennel is an excellent addition to any chicken run. This herb offers multiple benefits for both chickens and their keepers. Its feathery foliage provides chickens with shade and cover, making them feel secure in their environment.

Chickens enjoy eating fennel‘s leaves, stems, and seeds. The plant is rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to the birds’ overall health. Fennel’s subtle licorice flavor adds variety to their diet, encouraging natural foraging behavior.

The plant’s tall stalks and umbrella-like flower heads attract beneficial insects. This creates a mini-ecosystem within the chicken run, offering chickens additional protein sources as they hunt for bugs.

Fennel is relatively easy to grow and maintain. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Once established, it can withstand some pecking and scratching from curious chickens.

As an added bonus, fennel’s aromatic properties help mask less pleasant odors typically associated with chicken coops. This makes it a practical choice for runs located near residential areas.

5) Dandelion

Dandelions are a versatile and nutritious plant that can greatly benefit chickens in their run. These hardy perennials are easy to grow and can thrive in various conditions, making them an excellent choice for chicken keepers.

Chickens love to eat dandelion leaves, flowers, and roots. The leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. These nutrients contribute to better egg quality and overall chicken health.

Dandelions also act as a natural dewormer for chickens. The plant contains compounds that can help control internal parasites, promoting digestive health in the flock.

Growing dandelions in the chicken run provides a continuous source of fresh greens. Chickens can forage for these plants throughout the day, keeping them active and engaged.

Dandelions are also beneficial for the soil. Their deep taproots help aerate the ground and bring up nutrients from lower soil layers. This improves soil quality in the chicken run over time.

To introduce dandelions, simply allow existing plants to grow or scatter seeds in the run. The chickens will help spread the seeds naturally as they move around and scratch the soil.

6) Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is an excellent addition to any chicken run. This fragrant herb belongs to the mint family and offers numerous benefits for your flock.

Chickens enjoy nibbling on lemon balm leaves, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. The plant’s strong citrusy scent can help repel insects, creating a more comfortable environment for your hens.

Lemon balm is known for its calming properties. It may help reduce stress in chickens, potentially leading to improved egg production and overall health.

This herb grows quickly and spreads easily, making it an ideal choice for chicken runs. It thrives in both sunny and partially shaded areas, adapting well to various conditions.

Lemon balm is drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal maintenance. Regular pruning can help control its growth and prevent it from overtaking other plants in the run.

Chickens can safely consume lemon balm leaves and flowers. The plant’s robust nature allows it to withstand pecking and scratching, ensuring a continuous supply for your flock.

7) Mint

Mint is a versatile and aromatic herb that can be an excellent addition to your chicken run. This hardy perennial grows quickly and spreads easily, making it ideal for covering bare patches of ground.

Chickens enjoy nibbling on mint leaves, which can provide them with a refreshing treat during hot weather. The plant’s strong scent may also help repel pests and flies from the chicken run.

Mint contains essential oils that can aid in digestion and respiratory health for chickens. It may help reduce stress and promote overall well-being in your flock.

When planting mint in a chicken run, it’s important to consider its invasive nature. Planting it in containers or designated areas can help control its spread while still allowing chickens to access the leaves.

Some chicken keepers report that mint’s aroma can help mask unpleasant odors in the coop area. This can be particularly beneficial if your chicken run is close to your home or neighboring properties.

Benefits of Growing Plants in Chicken Runs

Integrating plants into chicken runs offers numerous advantages for both the birds and their environment. These benefits range from improving chicken health to enhancing the overall ecosystem of the run.

Enhanced Chicken Health

Plants in chicken runs provide essential nutrients and variety to hens’ diets. Chickens naturally forage, and having access to diverse vegetation allows them to supplement their feed with fresh greens, seeds, and insects. This dietary enrichment can lead to improved egg quality and quantity.

Certain herbs like sage and lavender have medicinal properties that may help combat common poultry ailments. These plants can be directly consumed by chickens or used as natural additives to their feed.

Plants also offer shade and shelter, protecting chickens from harsh sunlight and predators. This stress reduction contributes to better overall health and well-being of the flock.

Natural Pest Control

Many plants act as natural deterrents to common chicken parasites and pests. Aromatic herbs like mint and rosemary repel flies and mosquitoes, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.

Some plants attract beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests. This creates a balanced ecosystem within the chicken run, naturally controlling pest populations without the use of harsh chemicals.

Certain plant varieties can help mask the odor associated with chicken coops, making the area more pleasant for both chickens and their caretakers.

Improved Soil Quality

Chickens naturally till the soil as they scratch and peck, incorporating plant matter and their own droppings into the ground. This action, combined with the presence of diverse plant roots, improves soil structure and fertility.

Plants help prevent soil erosion in chicken runs, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic. Their root systems hold the soil in place, reducing muddy conditions during wet weather.

The combination of plant debris and chicken manure creates a nutrient-rich environment, enhancing the overall soil quality. This improved soil can support healthier plant growth, creating a self-sustaining cycle within the chicken run.

Tips for Planting in Chicken Runs

Successful planting in chicken runs requires careful planning and execution. Consider plant selection, protection methods, and seasonal factors to create a thriving environment for both flora and fowl.

Choosing the Right Plants

Select plants that are non-toxic to chickens and can withstand pecking and scratching. Opt for fast-growing, hardy varieties that can quickly recover from damage. Herbs like oregano, thyme, and mint are excellent choices, as they’re both edible and aromatic.

Consider plants that serve multiple purposes. Sunflowers provide shade and seeds, while fruit trees offer both food and shelter. Avoid plants with thorns or sharp edges that could harm your chickens.

Prioritize native species when possible, as they’re often more resilient and adapted to local conditions. This can reduce maintenance needs and increase the overall success of your plantings.

Protecting Plants from Chickens

Use physical barriers to safeguard young or delicate plants. Surround new seedlings with wire mesh or create small fenced areas within the run. These protective measures can be gradually removed as plants mature and establish stronger root systems.

Plant in raised beds or containers to elevate plants out of scratching range. This method also allows for better soil control and easier maintenance. Use sturdy materials like cedar or metal for longevity.

Implement a rotation system by dividing your run into sections. Allow chickens access to different areas on a schedule, giving plants time to recover between foraging sessions.

Seasonal Planting Considerations

Adjust your planting strategy based on the seasons. In spring, focus on fast-growing annuals and perennials that can establish quickly. Summer is ideal for heat-tolerant plants that provide shade and forage.

Plant cold-hardy varieties in fall to ensure greenery throughout winter. Consider evergreens or plants with winter berries for year-round interest and chicken treats.

Monitor soil moisture levels, especially during dry seasons. Implement a watering system that keeps plants hydrated without creating muddy conditions in the run. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Rotate crops seasonally to maintain soil health and provide diverse nutrition for your chickens. This practice also helps prevent pest and disease buildup in the soil.