Spring has sprung, and if you’re like most of us – you’re itching to get outside and get your hands dirty. Some of the most popular projects for homesteaders, of course, are gardens and chicken coops. If you’re new to one or the other, you likely want to find the best way to build a garden or chicken coop that fits your needs as best as possible. Here are some great tips for you to try on your own farm – and can serve double-duty!
Use Zip Ties and Pvc Pipe for a Portable Dome
(Image: Grit.com)
Not sure where you want to put your chicken coop? Need a “portable” greenhouse to protect seasonal sprouts in a specific area of your garden? Get creative (think back to your tinker-toy days) and build a quick portable done with 1-inch PVC pipe and zip ties! Get the directions here: http://www.grit.com/animals/chickens/zip-tie-dome-chicken-coop-zm0z14jfzreg.aspx
Use Fence for a “self-fertilizing” Coop/garden Combo
(Photo: Backwoodshome.com)
For a garden that fertilizes itself, use fence to close in an area that doubles as both a garden and chicken coop. With both areas sharing the same entrance, it’s easier to keep everything in (or out) where it needs to be. Rotating the compost and chickens as seasons permit, and your plants will thrive. Read how, here: http://www.backwoodshome.com/save-time-and-energy-with-the-fenced-chicken-coopgarden/
Go with a Conventional Lean-to Design
(Photo: Backwoodshome.com)
Would you rather add on to an existing shed or barn that you already have on your property? A lean-to is a great option and gives you the flexibility of gardening 365 days a year, or providing shelter to your free-range chickens. Get directions on how to build this 8×12 lean-to yourself, here: http://www.backwoodshome.com/build-a-lean-to-greenhouse/
Aromatherapy…for Chickens!
(Photo: Grit.com)
Once you’re finished with your chicken coop, it’s time to add the birds. Did you know that using herbs in your hens’ nesting boxes doesn’t just relax your chickens – it can actually double as insecticide and has anti-bacterial properties to protect your eggs. We’re not making it up! Read more about it here: http://www.grit.com/animals/nesting-box-herbs-chicken-aromatherapy.aspx
Organic Pest Control
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Speaking of insects, you’ll want to know how to safely keep things like aphids, cabbageworms, earworms, and slugs at bay so that your garden or animals can thrive without an insect infestation. If you’re not a fan of conventional pesticides and want a healthier alternative, find out what organic pest control solutions actually work, here: http://www.grit.com/farm-and-garden/common-garden-pests-zm0z12jazsch.aspx
Find a Way to Keep Your Chickens Cool
(Photo: Grit.com)
The summer heat can make you sweat when it comes to finding ways to protect your animals. It’s recommended that you hose down the areas in and around your chicken coop during the warmest part of the day, this will keep your chickens from overheating. Or you could use a small wading pool with a bit of water for your flock to cool themselves when they start to overheat. Find out some other simple tips on keeping your birds cool this summer here: http://www.grit.com/animals/beat-the-heat-helping-chickens-survive-high-temperatures.aspx
