Question 1

What Florida weeds are safe for chickens to eat?

Accepted Answer

Pennsylvania pellitory (Parietaria pensylvanica), Spanish needle (Bidens alba), pink portulaca (Portulaca pilosa), and common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) are safe, nutritious Florida weeds for chickens. All provide protein, vitamins, calcium, and iron essential for laying hens.

Question 2

What is Pennsylvania pellitory and where does it grow?

Accepted Answer

Pennsylvania pellitory, also called Chicken's Delight, is an annual weed native to North America. It grows vigorously in fall and winter in lightly shaded spots, corners of garden beds, and along fences throughout Florida, pulling up easily in satisfying clumps.

Question 3

Is Spanish needle good for chickens?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Spanish needle (Bidens alba) is highly nutritious for chickens. Related species Bidens pilosa acts as a prebiotic and may help prevent or lessen coccidiosis damage. It provides protein, vitamins C and A, calcium, iron, and magnesium year-round.

Question 4

What nutrients does pellitory provide for laying hens?

Accepted Answer

Per 100 grams, pellitory provides 2.1g protein, 3.2g fiber, 55% daily vitamin C, 24% folate, 14% calcium, and 14% iron. It also contains vitamins A, K, B6, plus potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus essential for egg production.

Question 5

Can chickens eat Bidens alba flowers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, chickens can eat all parts of Bidens alba including flowers, leaves, and stems. Bees, bunnies, and chickens all love this native Florida plant. It's nutritious for humans too and grown as a crop in Africa, typically sautéed with peanut sauce.

Question 6

What's the difference between pink portulaca and purslane?

Accepted Answer

Pink portulaca (Portulaca pilosa) is native to Florida with pink flowers. Common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is non-native with flat leaves and yellow flowers. Both are edible for chickens and humans, providing calcium, vitamins, and minerals for healthy egg production.

Question 7

How much calcium do Florida weeds provide for chickens?

Accepted Answer

Pink portulaca provides 132mg calcium per 100g (14% daily value), pellitory provides 140mg (14%), purslane provides 87mg (9%), and Spanish needle provides 69mg (7%). This calcium supports strong eggshells and bone health in laying hens.

Question 8

When does pellitory grow in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Pellitory is an annual weed growing vigorously during fall and winter months in Florida. It thrives in Zone 10a and throughout the state in lightly shaded areas, making it available as supplemental chicken feed during cooler seasons.

Question 9

Are portulaca and purslane the same plant?

Accepted Answer

They're closely related species in the Portulaca genus. Pink portulaca (Portulaca pilosa) has cylindrical succulent leaves, while common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) has flat leaves. Both provide similar nutrition and are safe for chickens, though purslane has tangier flavor for human consumption.

Question 10

Should you stop using pesticides if feeding weeds to chickens?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must stop using herbicides and pesticides if harvesting yard weeds for chickens. Chemical residues can harm chickens and contaminate eggs. Allow treated areas to grow pesticide-free for at least one full growing season before harvesting weeds for poultry.

Tag: backyard chickens

4 Common Florida Weeds for Chickens