Rotational Grazing

 

Organic Rotational Grazing for Backyard Poultry

What is Rotational Grazing?

Rotational grazing is the practice of moving poultry to fresh pasture regularly. This prevents overgrazing, reduces disease, and improves soil health.

Why Use It for Chickens?

Chickens can quickly turn a green pasture into bare dirt if left too long. Moving them daily or every few days allows the grass to recover and keeps the flock healthier.

How to Start – Basic Setup

- Use a mobile chicken tractor, hoop coop, or electric poultry netting
- Divide your pasture into plots (can be imaginary lines)
- Move birds to a new area once the grass is about 50–70% grazed

Pasture Timing Guide

- Chicks (3–4 weeks old) can start rotational grazing
- Move daily or every 2–3 days depending on size of flock and pasture
- Rest each section for at least 2–4 weeks

Benefits You’ll See

- Cleaner birds, less smell
- Fewer parasites and illnesses
- Healthier grass and better feed conversion
- Marketing benefit: 'Pasture-Raised' label

Final Tip

Track movements with a simple journal or app. Rotate clockwise or counter-clockwise to keep it organized. Over time, your pasture becomes more productive!


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