Weed killer and fertilizer w/ chickens

[CDennis]

We have free range chickens, sometimes too free range...they have found many ways around the no climb fencing and into the lawn which isn't a problem for me (don't ask my husband he may not agree) but he did bring up a good point. Typically in the spring we spray for weeds and use fertilizer how can this be accomplished w/ chickens? How long would they need to be pinned before they could walk on the lawn if any? Anyone heard of chickens dying from being in a yard where weed killer or fertilizer was used? Thanks in advance for all the advice. This website is great! -Cortney

 

[azelgin]

I spread Ironite and fertilizer pellets around my fruit trees last year. I forgot and let the chickens out, before watering it in enough to dissolve. Don't know if they ate any, but they were all over the place. Nobody got sick and died. Bob's tractor is sitting where I used Round Up, just befroe putting him on the ground. He ain't happy, but it's not because of the herbicides.

 

[Dustoff79]

Courtney,

I too free range my flock. I don't think having my chickens eat the grass/weeds that have been sprayed with the harsh chemical spray is good for them, most labels state it is posionous to "humans and domestic animals" and to not contaminate water sources. I use organic fertilizer on the lawn for many reasons and I use a mixture of orange oil and vinegar to spot treat weeds. There are also organic pre-emergents like corn gluten meal. If you want to protect your animals you may consider using organic methods to control weeds and feed the soil. Organics may take a little longer to see results and a little more effort but in the long run you will have better results. I think you and your flock will be happier and healthier in the long run.

 

[Jennie5193]

I *use* my chickens for weed killer and fertilizer!

I agree with Dustoff79, there are safer methods to use that are just as effective.

 

[azelgin]

Quote:
This is what i was trying to answer for the O.P. She didn't ask for alternative methods of weed control, or fertilizer. I didn't offer her any, or, any opinions.

 

[CDennis]

Thanks to everyone who replied, we are planning on trying organic this year just to be on the safe side. I don't want to risk harming the chickens or their eggs.