Blog by Peter Wilson

I began the Wilson Flock of Cluckers after a family reunion in Kauai, HI, in July of 2013. By August, I had baby chicks arriving. I began researching the best way to raise chickens naturally. I found a lot of information and purchased books and products to begin raising my flock. Over the years, I have found that the herbal products sold contained the herbs I was growing or could easily grow. This saved on the cost of keeping the flock.

Mint is a vigorous, aromatic herb known for its pest-repelling properties. It can be spread inside and outside the coop.

Lavender is a calming fragrance that not only soothes chickens but also repels fleas, mites, and flies. It can also be calming for the flock.

Oregano is great to add for the prevention of diseases. I always have plenty in the spice rack, which I borrow to sprinkle in the feed.

Parsley delivers a valuable nutrient boost. It also acts as a laying stimulant, encouraging more frequent egg production.

Basil supports respiratory health and has antibacterial qualities. Chickens enjoy the taste, and it is a vibrant addition to the garden.

I do not let the chickens forage freely in a section of the garden. They have plenty of room to move about. I do finely chop fresh herbs and mix them into our chickens’ feed or scatter them over their scratch grains.

Coop cleaning day, I will add a handful of dried lavender, marigold petals (deepens the yolk color), or mint leaves in nesting boxes with alpha hay.

When I am feeling crafty, I will tie small bundles of herbs like mint, rosemary, and thyme and hang them from the walls or ceiling of the coop.

More to come about The Wilson Flock of Cluckers.