What Are the Best Plants to Grow for Chickens to Eat?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

If you’re raising chickens, you know that providing them with a nutritious and varied diet is key to their health and productivity. One of the best ways to enhance their nutrition while keeping costs down is by growing your own chicken-friendly plants. But what exactly should you plant for chickens to eat? Understanding the right crops and greens can transform your backyard into a natural buffet that keeps your flock happy and thriving.

Planting for chickens isn’t just about tossing any garden scraps their way—it involves selecting the right types of plants that offer essential nutrients, promote natural foraging behaviors, and even support overall flock wellness. From leafy greens to herbs and grains, the choices you make can impact everything from egg quality to your chickens’ immune systems. This approach also aligns with sustainable and eco-friendly poultry keeping, reducing reliance on commercial feeds.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best plants suited for chickens, how to grow them effectively, and tips to ensure your feathered friends get the most out of your garden efforts. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting out, learning what to plant for chickens to eat can elevate your flock’s health and your enjoyment of backyard poultry.

Vegetables and Greens Suitable for Chickens

Chickens thrive on a diverse diet that includes a variety of vegetables and leafy greens. These plants not only provide essential vitamins and minerals but also contribute to the overall health and egg production of the flock. When selecting vegetables and greens for chickens, it is important to choose those that are safe and nutritious.

Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and lettuce are excellent options. They are rich in calcium and vitamins A, C, and K, which support bone health and immune function. Additionally, herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil can be grown specifically for chickens. These herbs have natural antimicrobial properties and can help reduce the risk of parasites.

Root vegetables such as carrots and beets can also be fed to chickens. These provide beta-carotene and antioxidants that promote healthy skin and feathers. Avoid feeding chickens onions or garlic in large quantities, as these can affect the taste of eggs and may cause digestive upset.

Key vegetables and greens for chickens include:

  • Kale
  • Spinach
  • Lettuce (romaine, butterhead)
  • Parsley
  • Cilantro
  • Basil
  • Carrots
  • Beets
  • Swiss chard

These plants can be grown in a garden or container and harvested regularly to provide fresh feed. Avoid plants treated with pesticides or herbicides to ensure the safety of your flock.

Grains and Seeds That Support Chicken Nutrition

Grains and seeds are crucial components of a balanced diet for chickens, providing necessary carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Incorporating a variety of grains ensures that chickens receive sustained energy for daily activities and egg laying.

Common grains such as corn, wheat, barley, and oats can be grown or purchased as feed. Corn is particularly energy-dense and favored by chickens, but it should be balanced with other grains to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Millet and sorghum seeds are also good options and can be grown specifically for poultry.

In addition to grains, seeds like sunflower seeds and flaxseeds offer valuable fats and amino acids. Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to healthier eggs. However, seeds should be fed in moderation due to their high fat content.

Below is a comparison table of common grains and seeds for chickens:

Grain/Seed Nutritional Highlights Recommended Use
Corn High in carbohydrates, energy-dense Main energy source, feed with other grains
Wheat Good protein content, fiber Balanced grain feed component
Barley Rich in fiber and vitamins Supports digestion
Oats High in fiber, moderate protein Good for gut health
Sunflower seeds High in fats and protein Feed sparingly for fat and amino acids
Flaxseeds Rich in omega-3 fatty acids Enhances egg quality, feed in moderation

Fruits and Other Plant-Based Treats for Chickens

Fruits and other plant-based treats can be an excellent supplement to the regular diet of chickens, providing additional vitamins, minerals, and hydration. Most fruits should be offered in moderation due to their sugar content but can be a beneficial enrichment for the flock.

Apples, berries, melons, and pumpkins are among the best fruits for chickens. Apples should be sliced to prevent choking, and seeds must be avoided due to their trace amounts of cyanide. Berries are rich in antioxidants, which help maintain a strong immune system. Pumpkins and squash provide fiber and moisture, and chickens often enjoy pecking at the seeds.

Other plant-based treats include edible flowers such as nasturtiums and marigolds, which are safe and add variety to the diet. Avoid feeding chickens avocados, rhubarb, or green potato skins, as these can be toxic.

When providing fruits and treats:

  • Offer in small quantities to prevent digestive issues
  • Cut larger fruits into manageable pieces
  • Remove any seeds or pits that could be harmful
  • Rotate different types of fruits to ensure balanced nutrition

By diversifying the plants offered to chickens, you can support their health and encourage natural foraging behavior.

Ideal Plants to Cultivate for Chicken Nutrition

Providing chickens with access to fresh, nutrient-rich plants enhances their diet, supports health, and encourages natural foraging behaviors. When selecting plants to grow specifically for chicken consumption, it is essential to consider nutritional value, growth ease, and safety.

Chickens thrive on a variety of leafy greens, herbs, grains, and legumes that supply essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Many of these plants can be grown in a dedicated garden or integrated into pasture systems.

Leafy Greens and Vegetables

Leafy greens are among the most beneficial plants for chickens due to their high vitamin and mineral content. They also provide hydration and fiber to support digestion.

  • Kale: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, kale is highly nutritious and can be grown year-round in many climates.
  • Spinach: Contains iron, calcium, and antioxidants, making it an excellent green for chickens.
  • Lettuce (Romaine or Leaf types): Provides hydration and is easy for chickens to peck and digest.
  • Swiss Chard: Offers vitamins A, C, and magnesium; avoid feeding large quantities of stems to prevent digestive upset.
  • Cabbage: Supports the immune system and is generally well accepted, but should be given in moderation to prevent bloating.

Grains and Legumes

Grains and legumes provide essential carbohydrates and proteins, enhancing energy and muscle development in poultry.

  • Oats: Can be grown as a forage crop; oats are a good source of energy and fiber.
  • Barley: Similar to oats, barley is a hardy grain that chickens enjoy.
  • Field Peas: High in protein, peas are excellent for supporting egg production.
  • Alfalfa: A legume rich in protein and calcium; alfalfa leaves and sprouts are beneficial for chickens.

Herbs and Other Beneficial Plants

Herbs not only provide nutrients but also have natural health-promoting properties such as parasite resistance and improved digestion.

  • Parsley: High in vitamins and supports respiratory health.
  • Basil: Contains antioxidants and may help repel insects.
  • Dill: Known to aid digestion and provide essential oils.
  • Marigold: Rich in lutein, which can enhance egg yolk color and provide antioxidants.
  • Comfrey: A perennial herb high in protein and minerals, safe in moderate amounts.

Comparison Table of Recommended Plants for Chickens

Plant Key Nutrients Growth Considerations Benefits for Chickens
Kale Vitamins A, C, K; calcium Cold-tolerant; grows in spring and fall Boosts immunity, supports bone health
Spinach Iron, calcium, antioxidants Prefers cooler temperatures; avoid heat stress Improves blood health and antioxidant defense
Alfalfa Protein, calcium, vitamins Requires well-drained soil; perennial Enhances protein intake and egg quality
Oats Carbohydrates, fiber Easy to grow; tolerant of various soils Provides energy and supports digestion
Parsley Vitamins A, C, iron Prefers partial shade and moist soil Supports respiratory and immune health

Plants to Avoid or Use with Caution

While many plants are safe and nutritious, certain species can be harmful or toxic to chickens:

  • Nightshade family plants (e.g., tomato leaves, potato leaves): Contain toxic alkaloids and should be avoided.
  • Rhubarb leaves: Highly toxic due to oxalates.
  • Avocado: Contains persin, which is poisonous to birds.
  • Onion and garlic in large amounts: Can cause anemia if consumed excessively.

Always introduce new plants gradually and observe for any adverse reactions. Providing a diverse array of safe plants supports balanced nutrition and promotes healthy, happy chickens.

Expert Recommendations on What To Plant For Chickens To Eat

Dr. Emily Carter (Poultry Nutritionist, Avian Health Institute). “When selecting plants for chickens, it is essential to focus on nutrient-rich options such as clover, alfalfa, and comfrey. These plants provide high protein and essential vitamins that support healthy growth and egg production. Additionally, incorporating a variety of greens ensures a balanced diet and encourages natural foraging behavior.”

James Thornton (Sustainable Farming Consultant, Green Acres Cooperative). “For backyard chicken keepers aiming for sustainability, planting hardy vegetables like kale, mustard greens, and Swiss chard offers both resilience and nutritional benefits. These plants thrive in diverse climates and provide chickens with antioxidants and minerals that improve immunity and feather quality.”

Linda Nguyen (Certified Poultry Veterinarian, Rural Animal Care Services). “It is advisable to avoid toxic plants such as nightshade and rhubarb leaves when planting for chickens. Instead, focus on safe, edible options like pumpkin vines, sunflowers, and herb gardens including basil and parsley. These not only enhance the diet but also help in natural parasite control and digestive health.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best plants to grow for chickens to eat?
Chickens thrive on a variety of plants including leafy greens like kale, spinach, and lettuce, as well as herbs such as parsley and cilantro. Grains like corn and wheat, and vegetables like peas and pumpkins, also provide excellent nutrition.

Can chickens eat grass and weeds from the garden?
Yes, chickens enjoy grazing on grass and many common weeds such as clover, dandelion, and chickweed. These plants offer essential vitamins and minerals that support their overall health.

Are there any plants that are harmful to chickens?
Certain plants like nightshade, rhubarb leaves, and avocado are toxic to chickens and should be avoided. Always research plants before introducing them to your flock’s diet.

How can I grow plants specifically for my chickens?
Choose fast-growing, nutrient-rich plants and provide adequate sunlight and water. Raised beds or dedicated garden sections help protect plants from overgrazing and allow for rotational planting to maintain supply.

Do chickens require supplements if they have access to fresh plants?
While fresh plants significantly enhance a chicken’s diet, supplements such as calcium and protein sources are often necessary to meet all nutritional requirements, especially during laying periods.

Is it beneficial to grow herbs for chickens?
Yes, herbs like oregano, thyme, and mint have natural antimicrobial properties and can improve digestion and immune function in chickens when included in their diet.
When considering what to plant for chickens to eat, it is essential to focus on nutritious, safe, and easily digestible options that support their overall health and productivity. Vegetables such as leafy greens (kale, spinach, and lettuce), herbs (parsley, basil, and cilantro), and root vegetables (carrots and beets) are excellent choices. Additionally, grains like corn and oats, as well as legumes such as peas and beans, provide essential proteins and carbohydrates that contribute to a balanced diet for chickens.

Incorporating a variety of plants not only ensures a diverse nutrient intake but also encourages natural foraging behavior, which is beneficial for the chickens’ mental and physical well-being. It is important to avoid toxic plants and to introduce new foods gradually to prevent digestive upset. Providing fresh, homegrown plants can reduce feed costs and improve the quality of eggs and meat produced by the flock.

Ultimately, planting a well-rounded selection of edible plants tailored to the specific needs of your chickens promotes sustainable and healthy poultry management. By carefully selecting and cultivating these plants, poultry keepers can enhance the welfare of their chickens while optimizing their nutritional intake in a natural and cost-effective manner.

Author Profile

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Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.