When it comes to finding the best cover crop for chickens, there are several factors to consider. Chickens love to scratch and peck at the ground, so it’s important to choose a cover crop that can withstand their foraging habits. Additionally, you’ll want to select a crop that is nutritious for both the chickens and the soil.
One excellent option for a chicken-resistant cover crop is rosemary. This aromatic herb not only adds beauty to your garden but is also edible and has many health benefits. The trailing variety of rosemary works well as a ground cover and can tolerate the occasional pecking from chickens. It’s a hardy plant that thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil.
Another great option is sweet woodruff. This low-growing perennial has a pleasant aroma and is often used as a ground cover in shady areas. It is known for its ability to deter pests, including chickens. Sweet woodruff is also edible and can be used in herbal teas or as a flavoring for desserts.
While not all edible ground covers can withstand being walked on, there are some that can handle the occasional foot traffic from chickens. Alpine strawberries are a fantastic choice for this. They are low-growing, spreading plants that produce small, flavorful strawberries. Not only will your chickens enjoy pecking at the ripe berries, but the ground cover will also help suppress weeds and protect the soil.
If you’re looking for a cover crop that provides both food for your chickens and benefits for the soil, consider low bush blueberries and cranberry bushes. These plants are not only edible but also have shallow root systems that can tolerate some scratching from chickens. Blueberries and cranberries are packed with antioxidants and provide a delicious treat for your feathered friends.
In my own experience, I have found that a mix of these chicken-resistant ground covers can create a diverse and functional garden. I have planted rosemary and sweet woodruff as ground covers in different areas of my chicken enclosure, and they have held up well against the chickens’ foraging habits. The chickens enjoy pecking at the plants, and I appreciate the added beauty and functionality they bring to the space.
When choosing a cover crop for chickens, it’s important to select varieties that can withstand their scratching and pecking behavior. Edible ground covers such as rosemary (trailing type), sweet woodruff, alpine strawberries, low bush blueberries, and cranberry bushes are all excellent options. By incorporating these chicken-resistant ground covers into your garden, you can provide both food for your chickens and added benefits for your soil.
