I used to let the chickens and ducks roam the grounds. I enjoyed watching them explore. They seemed to enjoy it so much. However, they damaged so many flower beds and plants and the coyote and bobcat carried so many away, I now keep them penned up. Of course, in doing that, they scratch away all of the grass and there is nothing but dirt. In this hot west Texas environment, it can be so dusty and miserable. They have no trees in their yard. They have boards mounted to give them shade. They have a large house and a large yard to run around in. Last year, I found a young honey locus tree growing in the flower bed. I dug it up and planted it in a container. It has grown and done well and leafed out so pretty this year. Today, I penned off a section of the chicken yard and tilled up the ground. I planted the tree in the middle and then planted grass seed. Hopefully, the tree will grow and they will have some nice shade next year. As for the grass, it's just for their enjoyment. I know it won't last long.
Here is the tree ready to go to it' new location
Here it is in it's new home. I hope it grows!
6 comments:
What a great tree! We were just scouring our woods today in search of baby honey locust to bring to our woodline. Their fragrance is just amazing, isn't it? Those are some lucky duckies ... and chickens!
Smiles,
Lea
You're right Kathleen, chickens sure can dig up a flower bed!
I have a little hen and rooster that make a bee-line for the house when I turn them out, and their first stop is always the mulch. They have that stuff everywhere in no time!
This will be our first summer with chickens and they've already dug our mulch out from our bushes. I haven't even tried to start planting flowers yet!! Crazy little buggers.
I heard about a chicken tractor this year - a sort of portable pen you keep the chickens in during a day - moving it along as they do their job - they dig up the soil, eat the bugs and small sprouts of whatever. Then you pen them in their regular coop at night - seems so smart - I bet a farm wife thought that up! Wonderful tree and you are the BEST caretaker of your animals.
Pretty tree and it will be so nice for shade in the years to come...I know all the chikens and duck are going to love their treat of grass...you are a good mom:). I see you changed your header...I like. Linda
Thanks everyone for stopping by. I hope that by this time next year, I can show you a big tree with all the fluffys sitting under it! blessings, Kathleen
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