10 Best Plants for Your Chicken Coop – Increase Your Cluck’s Living Spaces

10 Best Plants for Your Chicken Coop – Increase Your Cluck’s Living Spaces

Designing and maintaining your chicken coop can be a fun and creative process. While ensuring your chickens have a comfortable and safe home should be your primary goal, adding some greenery can enhance their environment. Chickens can benefit from the shade and shelter provided by plants, as well as eating the leaves, seeds, and flowers which can help improve their wellbeing, behavior, and egg quality. If you’re considering adding some plant life to your coop, here are ten of the best chicken coop plants to consider.

1. Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm is a wonderful herb that attracts pollinators, has a lovely aroma, and has been shown to help reduce stress levels in chickens. The calming effects of this plant can help reduce pecking and other aggressive behaviors, and your chickens will love pecking at the fragrant leaves. Lemon balm can attract some predators, so take care to plant it away from the coop and keep an eye on any invasion.

2. Borage

Borage is a pretty blue flower that is easy to grow and is also a great source of nutrition for your chickens. Its leaves and flowers are high in calcium, magnesium, and potassium which are key nutrients for chickens. Additionally, borage has been shown to have a calming effect on chickens, which can reduce stress and encourage egg laying.

3. Lavender

Lavender is a well-known herb that is popular for its aroma, calming effects, and insect repellent properties. Chickens that consume lavender may have better sleeping habits, which can lead to improved egg-laying patterns. Additionally, lavender can help repel pests like flies and mosquitoes, which can make the coop a more comfortable place for your chickens.

4. Dandelion

Dandelions are plentiful and easy to grow, and they are packed with nutrients that are beneficial for chickens. The leaves and flowers contain antioxidants, vitamins A and K, and magnesium, all of which can promote healthy egg production and general wellbeing for your chickens. Furthermore, dandelion roots are a natural dewormer and can help prevent intestinal parasites in your flock.

5. Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are colorful flowers that add a bright and cheerful touch to any coop or garden. The flowers and leaves are edible and can add some variety to your chicken's diet. They contain vitamin C, an essential nutrient that is important for immune health. Additionally, nasturtiums can help repel insects and pests in the coop.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile is a calming herb that can help reduce stress levels and promote better sleep for your chickens. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with respiratory issues and other ailments. The flowers are edible and can help promote egg production and the overall health of your flock.

7. Comfrey

Comfrey is a hardy perennial plant that is packed with nutrients. It is rich in calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are critical for healthy bones, feathers, and eggshells. Comfrey also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help support respiratory and digestive health. This plant can grow quite tall, so be sure to plant it in a corner or area that won't block sunlight or airflow through the coop.

8. Marigold

Marigolds are tough, hardy flowers that can stand up to hot and dry conditions. The flowers are edible and can add some variety to your chicken's diet. Marigolds also contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin and feathers. Additionally, marigolds are natural insect repellents, which can help keep the coop pest-free.

9. Sunflower

Sunflowers are beautiful and easy to grow, and their seeds make a tasty and nutritious snack for your chickens. Sunflower seeds are high in protein, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids, all of which can help support healthy feathers and overall health. It is essential to provide the right amounts of sunflower seeds as consuming too many can lead to weight gain.

10. Chickweed

Chickweed is a wild plant that is full of vitamins and minerals that can improve your chicken's health. Chickweed is a rich source of protein, calcium, and iron, all of which are essential for healthy egg production and overall wellbeing. The leaves, stems, and flowers are all edible, and your chickens will love pecking at this green and nourishing snack.

Conclusion

Adding some greenery to your chicken coop can provide many benefits for your chickens and enhance their living environment. By selecting plants that provide shade, shelter, and nutrition, you can create a coop that is not only functional but also beautiful. The ten plants we've highlighted are a great place to start, but there are many more plants you can add to provide additional benefits for your flock. As with any addition to your coop, be sure to do your research and make sure the plants you choose are safe and beneficial for your chickens.