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Want to grow oats for your chickens?
It’s easier than you might think!
We’ve got 7 simple tactics to help you out. Your chickens will love the fresh oats, and you’ll love the results.
Curious to learn more?
Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Variety
You’ll need to pick the right type of oats for your chickens. There are different varieties out there, including common oats and hull-less oats.
Hull-less oats are great because they don’t have that hard shell and are easier for chickens to eat. So, when you’re picking out seeds, go for hull-less if you can.
Trust me, your chickens will thank you!
Prepare Your Soil
Oats grow best in well-drained soil. Take some time to turn the soil over and get rid of any weeds.
You can also add compost or other organic matter to make the soil richer. The better your soil, the better your oats will grow.
Give your oats a good start, and your chickens will get the awesome benefits.
Planting Time
Plant your oats in early spring or late summer. Aim for when the soil temperature is around 50°F.
Make shallow rows, about 1-2 inches deep. Sprinkle the seeds evenly and cover them with soil.
Don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect; oats are pretty forgiving. Water the area, and you’re good to go!
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water your oats regularly, especially if you notice they’re looking a little thirsty.
If you live in a rainy area, you might not need to water them as much. Just keep an eye on things and adjust as needed.
Healthy oats mean happy chickens, so it’s worth the effort.
Fertilizing
If your soil is lacking nutrients, you might need to add some fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium works well.
Fertilize your oats when they’re about 6 inches tall. But don’t go overboard—too much fertilizer can be just as bad as not enough.
Pest Control
Oats don’t usually attract a ton of pests, but it’s still good to keep an eye out. Look for any signs of trouble like holes in the leaves or bugs crawling around.
If you spot something, act fast. Natural pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap can work wonders without harming your chickens.
Harvest Time
Once your oats reach maturity, it’s time to harvest. You’ll know they’re ready when the oat heads turn a golden brown.
Cut them at the base and let them dry out for about a week. After drying, you can thresh them by hand or with a machine to separate the grains from the stalks.
Then you’re all set to feed your chickens some homegrown oats!