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Animals Breeds Chickens 101 Farm & Garden Poultry

Rare Breed Chickens Satisfy Numerous Poultry-Raising Needs

It’s a bucolic scene. A green pasture dotted with a rainbow of happy poultry scratching the ground and pecking for food to their hearts’ content. The hens chatter contentedly, and roosters crow when the mood strikes. The chickens might be jet black, brown, buff, gray, bronzish-red or a mix of other feather colors and patterns. But all are striking in appearance and fascinating to watch.

A basket full of naturally tinted eggs—brown, cream, green, blue and white—attracts neighbors to the farm for their weekly dozen. A local farm-to-table restaurant buys all the meat—prized for its flavor—that the farmer has for sale. 

The poultry mentioned in this scenario could all be rare breed chickens on the Conservation Priority List of The Livestock Conservancy, a national organization with a specific mission: “To protect America’s endangered livestock and poultry breeds from extinction.” 

In the commercial poultry world, white is the color of choice whether they’re laying hens or broilers, ducks, geese or turkeys. Yet, for poultry enthusiasts, many other breeds to choose from exist, offering varied options in color and form and valuable genetics in danger of being lost. 

Value of Diversity

Today’s animal agriculture is dominated by just a few breeds in each livestock species, admittedly because those outshine the rest in efficiency of meat, milk or egg production. In dairy cattle, the black and white Holstein cow stands easily above the rest in volume of milk produced.

But according to Chad Dechow and Wansheng Liu, researchers at Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, nearly all of today’s Holstein male pedigrees trace back to two bulls from the 1960s. What if something goes awry with those bloodlines? 

A similar dilemma faces some breeds of poultry, beef cattle, sheep and goats, swine and even equines. A May 2019 United Nations Biodiversity Convention review estimated that 30 percent of the world’s livestock breeds were in danger of extinction and that six breeds were lost every month. The same report stated that 75 percent of the world’s food supply comes from only 12 plants and five animal species, illustrating how loss of biodiversity could intensify human food insecurity. 

“Each breed represents a piece of genetic diversity for the species,” says Jeannette Beranger, senior program manager at The Livestock Conservancy and a poultry fancier working to preserve the Crévecoeur chicken breed. “When we lose a breed on our Conservation Priority List, we lose diversity we can’t get back because animals that were used to create the breed no longer exist.”

rare breed chickens poultry
Courtesy of Greenfire Farms

Beranger says that the traits carried on those genes can be in the form of mothering ability, fertility, disease resistance, flavor and so much more. Conserving these genetics ensures they will be available should they be needed later. As American agriculturist and U.S. Special Envoy for Global Food Security Cary Fowler put it: “We can’t simply look in a crystal ball and see what genes we will need in the future.”

David Adkins, the American Poultry Association secretary, licensed poultry judge and breeder of White-Faced Black Spanish chickens (which are TLC listed as “threatened”), agrees. “One problem you have when there are so few birds of a particular breed is trying to maintain a big enough gene pool that they don’t become so inbred that they basically stop being able to reproduce.

“They may still lay eggs, but the fertility goes to nothing.”


Read more: Consider these 4 critically endangered chickens for your flock.


Sorting the Terminology

When researching, it’s important to understand how the words “rare,” “standard-bred” and “heritage” are applied when it comes to describing poultry breeds.

Rare breed chickens are simply that: breeds that are scarce or endangered. 

The APA calls their recognized purebreds “standard-breds,” which means they’re bred to a standard of perfection, a written description of the ideal male and female of each individual breed. APA standard-breds include many breeds with a long history of being bred in America, whether they were developed here or imported many years ago. 

With a few exceptions, most of the endangered poultry breeds on the TLC’s Conservation Priority List are also breeds recognized by the APA. Beranger explains that some TLC-listed “landrace” breeds (regionally developed and adapted to the conditions of that area) aren’t APA-accepted to date. Cotton Patch geese are an example. 

The word “heritage” is often associated with rare breed chickens and livestock and may be confusing. Synonyms and definitions of the word include:

  • traditional
  • legacy
  • passed down from generation to generation
  • a traditional brand or product regarded as emblematic of fine craftsmanship

While these may all apply to endangered poultry breeds, make sure to understand how the term heritage is being used in livestock advertisements. Is it simply a marketing tool or does it mean something specific in terms of the animal’s bloodlines? When TLC uses the word on their website it means “rare or endangered standard-bred poultry,” according to Beranger. 

Also, some of these legacy breeds exist in sufficient numbers, so they aren’t on the TLC’s Conservation Priority List. And, some recently imported rare breed chickens available in the U.S. aren’t APA-recognized because the process to admit them hasn’t yet been completed. 

Reasons to Raise Rare Breed Chickens

In addition to doing good work by preserving genetics, raising and marketing these traditional breeds gives the producer a chance to spotlight value-added traits such as enhanced flavor of the meat and eggs and the novelty of additional egg colors. If they wish to market breeding stock, they can tout the beauty and virtues of their favorite breed. 

For the competitive-minded or those who want feedback on the progress of their breeding program, exhibiting at shows is a great way to fulfill those goals and have fun socializing at the same time. Rare breed chickens can make great youth projects for 4-H, FFA and APA Junior Shows and even be cherished family pets. 

Dave Anderson of Fillmore, California, is a past president of the APA and TLC board member.  He finds the breeding and exhibiting of standard-bred poultry to be very rewarding in many ways.

“There is a certain satisfaction in continually trying to create a more perfect bird via selective breeding and also in knowing that you are helping to keep some of the old, rare breeds prospering,” he says. “Another very important aspect of the hobby is the life-long friendships developed throughout the years with people who share your interests.” 

Another long-time poultry breeder, Don Schrider of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has specialized in Light Brown Leghorns since 1989 and proudly shares that his flock descends from the stock of four top breeders who are all gone now. He was fascinated by his neighbors’ chickens from the time he was 2 years old and started keeping his own poultry by age 13. 

rare breed chickens poultry
Courtesy of Greenfire Farms

“I have always enjoyed watching chickens,” he says. “They interact with each other, are inquisitive, always moving about. Then there is the beautiful plumage in many stunning colors. While they provide food, eggs and meat, they are also exotic birds. I show competitively and enjoy the camaraderie and the competition. For me, the chickens have been a big part of my life for many decades.” 

Paul Bradshaw is owner of Greenfire Farms in Havana, Florida, where they raise a variety of rare breeds, some very new to U.S. soil (thus not APA-recognized or TLC-listed) and others that are APA-recognized and on the TLC’s list. They market fertilized eggs, chicks and started adults. Bradshaw notes a huge increase in interest in legacy poultry in recent years. 

“The average small-scale chicken owner doesn’t want boring chickens with no survival skills, and that’s the best way to describe modern, commercial strains,” he says. “Heritage breeds are beautiful, hardy and often the embodiment of fascinating history.”


Read more: These rare and unique heritage chickens are odd birds indeed!


Getting Started

Adkins offers three points to consider for anyone interested in getting started with poultry, whether rare breed chickens or something else. 

First, spend time investigating the various breeds and, based on that research, determine which are of most interest. He cautions against trying too many breeds at one time to help sort out preferences without being overwhelmed.

Second, clearly outline your objectives. “Are you just wanting chickens in your backyard for eggs?” he asks. “If that’s the case, any of the hatcheries will sell you some chicks and ship them to you through the mail, and that will be fine for what you want to do. On the other hand, if you think you want to get into the exhibition aspect of things, then spend some time to find a reputable breeder to purchase your birds from.”

Third, plan what equipment and supplies will be needed to keep the poultry healthy, happy and safe. Consider the space needed to raise them, and devise a plan to deal with potential predators.

“Most of the time you can have some chickens loose in the backyard, but if you don’t pen them up at night, it won’t be long before you won’t have any more chickens,” Adkins says. 

Selecting a Breed

All interviewees emphasize that it’s very important to obtain a copy of the APA’s Standard of Perfection. It’s the definitive guide to all recognized poultry breeds and varieties and includes many artist representations (of large and bantam chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and guinea fowl.) All advise reviewing as many other references as possible, too, including books, magazines, websites, hatchery catalogs and videos. 

The TLC and APA web­sites feature lots of useful information including breed descriptions and links to clubs, advice on getting started and poultry care, a glossary of terms and definitions, breeder advertisements and more. The Livestock Conservancy Directory of Rare Breeds and Products Resource Guide and the annual APA Yearbook are places to start looking for birds, too.

They all suggest going to poultry shows to see the various breeds and talk with competitors (when they aren’t busy) as a great way to learn more. Adkins says an easy way to find poultry shows in your area is to look under the “Events” or “Shows” tabs on the APA or breed club websites or go to PoultryShowCentral.com, which has an extensive listing of exhibitions. 

Beranger advises to note whether breeders and hatcheries have been inspected and certified by the National Poultry Improvement Plan which is operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While the NPIP program is voluntary, she explains that if they’re selling fertilized hatching eggs, chicks or adults, they should participate. “If they’re selling over state lines or competing in shows, legally they have to be. If they have a closed flock and don’t send birds off property, then it’s their choice.”

rare breed chickens poultry
Courtesy Jeannette Beranger/The Livestock Conservancy

Look for breeds that match your available resources and wish list by considering the following points.

  • How much space do you have? Can you accommodate a larger breed or are bantams a better choice for your facility?
  • A pond or pool is advised for raising waterfowl. 
  • Pay attention to the type of climate that best suits a particular breed. Does your location offer that or would you be better off with another breed built for the weather and terrain in your area? 
  • What is your objective? Do you want to sell meat or eggs?
    Do you want to raise birds for exhibition and sell breeding stock? Is your goal a hobby flock or a youth project?
  • Carefully review the temperament and activity descriptions of breeds you’re contemplating to make sure they’ ll work for your situation. 
  • Don’t forget to review local and state ordinances for keeping poultry in your area. If you live in an urban area, you may be restricted on the number of birds and may not be allowed to keep a rooster. 
  • Schrider’s top tips on breed selection: “Try a few birds of several breeds before you make your final choice. Be prepared to pass them along to make room for the breed you love. And take the time to seek out the best possible quality, not the easiest to obtain.”

Bradshaw put the attraction of raising rare breed chickens in a nutshell: “Chickens are the ‘gateway livestock’ for many backyard gardeners and homesteaders looking for an easy way to get into raising farm animals,” he says.

“For many people, the benefit is that their eggs can provide a source of delicious animal protein without slaughtering the animal itself. For me, the attraction is a combination of fantastic looks, entertaining social behavior and, in many cases, the rarity of individual breeds.” 


More Information

Conservation Priority List 

There are four status classifications for rare breeds on the The Livestock Conservancy’s Conservation Priority List, each designated by a single-letter abbreviation. 

  • Critical (C): Fewer than 500 breeding birds in the U.S., with five or fewer primary breeding flocks (50 birds or more) and an estimated global population less than 1,000. 
  • Threatened (T): Fewer than 1,000 breeding birds in the U.S., with seven or fewer primary breeding flocks and an estimated global population less than 5,000. 
  • Watch (W): Fewer than 5,000 breeding birds in the U.S., with 10 or fewer primary breeding flocks and an estimated global population less than 10,000. Also included are breeds that present genetic or numerical concerns or have a limited geographic distribution. 
  • Recovering (R): Breeds once listed in another category but have exceeded Watch category numbers and still need monitoring.

Marketing Tips

The best marketing strategy for you depends on what you want to market. If you want to sell meat and eggs for human consumption, then the target market will likely be direct to consumers through farmers markets, local advertisements and social media; contacting local restaurants; and often word-of-mouth testimonials from other clients. Make sure to research local and state health department requirements for selling food products. 

On the other hand, if you develop a solid breeding program and gain success in showing over time, you may eventually want to market breeding stock through sales of fertilized eggs, chicks and/or young adult birds. In that case, marketing avenues may take the form of breeder advertisements in American Poultry Association or The Livestock Conservancy publications and/or social media and website marketing. Some hatcheries also contract with established breeders to supply them with chicks from various breeds. 

Seeking advice from experienced breeders on their marketing and shipping procedures and understanding state and federal laws on the process are must-dos. Also research the need for liability insurance and sales and property tax obligations as any business owner would.

This article originally appeared in the July/August 2023 issue of Chickens magazine.

Categories
Animals Farm & Garden Large Animals

Cattle Feeding Basics: Time To Ponder Protein

In my previous article, we began breaking down the basic nutritional needs of cattle. Specifically, we considered roughage. We talked about where it generally comes from and the process of cutting and harvesting it, as well as tips for storage and use later on. 

Moving on down the list of nutritional needs in cattle, in this article we’re taking a closer look at protein. Local farmer and rancher Todd Krispense spoke with us about some of the different sources and forms you can find protein in.

Cattle Protein Needs

Protein requirements can vary between animals. As he pointed out, a lactating cow will require a higher level of protein than a dry cow will. Likewise, if you’re feeding calves, they will also need a higher level of protein than their larger or more mature counterparts, as it is one of the building blocks for bone, muscle and so on. 

Some natural sources for protein can include alfalfa, clover, and soybeans (as well as other legumes), Todd notes. But protein can also be supplemented to your cattle in other forms, such as via protein tubs or range cubes/pellets (mainly made from grain byproducts). 

During the summer months, we typically haul groups of feeder steers out to pastures in the Flint Hills. There they will spend their days grazing grass and wandering around to their hearts’ content. When the time comes that there is less grass and they need to be brought back home to the farm, the animals will receive range cubes just about daily.

Range Cubes

Range cubes not only supplement protein animals might be lacking in their diet due to the dwindling grass supply, but they help get the cattle more used to and comfortable with walking into the catch pen.

Before you know it, as the pickup enters the pasture and begins to honk, a swarm of bellowing, fly-swatting cattle will cluster around it. They watch eagerly as the range cube bags are torn open. The cubes are gradually dumped into a long line on the ground, and the cattle clump together as they begin munching.

Eventually, the cattle will be gathered up and placed in the catch pen before being loaded on a trailer and hauled home. 

Protein in Everyday Feed Rations

While these cubes are helpful for supplementing protein, they’re not used in the everyday feed ration for the cattle back on the farm.

On our farm, Todd shares that in the past alfalfa and soybean meal were used before switching over to distiller grains, which are a byproduct (or co-product) of ethanol. He also noted that brewers grains are another byproduct of beer or alcoholic beverage production. He shared that other examples of byproducts can be found in corn gluten feed (which comes from the production of corn syrup) or soybean meal (that which is left behind when soybeans are crushed in order to produce soy oil). 

Todd notes that today distiller grains are mixed right into the feed ration to create what you would call a complete ration—totally combined in the feed box. 

As you begin to pursue the appropriate feed ration for your own cattle, it’s important to keep in mind their various nutritional requirements. As Todd points out, it can be helpful to find a good nutritionist to help educate you. Before you jump right in, do a little research of your own so that you can understand some of the basic terms and information that your nutritionist might share with you.

If possible, look for a trustworthy local rancher that would be willing to help you learn along the way. Happy feeding!

Categories
Equipment Farm & Garden

Old Fordson Tractor Shows How Far Tractors Have Come

I’ve long been a proponent of keeping vintage tractors in use around farms. Even at ~70 years old, my John Deere Model 40 is reliable as can be and does great work raking hay and pulling wagons. My Massey Ferguson 135 is more than half a century old but cuts fields and bales hay just fine.

But some tractors … well, they’re a little too vintage, even for me. It’s amazing how far tractors have progressed during the last century.

I recently saw an old Fordson tractor on display and had to marvel at both the similarities and differences compared to modern tractors. A sign stated the tractor was from 1926, which—as near as I can tell—would make it a Fordson F with a 20-horsepower engine.

Even though it’s approaching 100 years old, there was no mistaking the Fordson F as a tractor. Two large drive wheels in the back, two smaller wheels in the front, the engine mounted in front of the steering wheel…. Truthfully, the Fordson F looked a lot like the John Deere Model 40 and the Massey Ferguson 135.

Some Key Differences

But the differences were striking. Rubber tires were nowhere to be found. Instead, the Fordson F had steel wheels with large lugs for generating traction. I’m sure it would have been a bumpy ride on hard ground, though the wheels looked ready to dig deep for traction. Indeed a bit of reading and research suggests the traction of these old steel wheels can be very good. Maybe even too good, since the slippage of rubber tires can be beneficial in some circumstances.

Another notable difference was the hand crank on the front of the machine to facilitate starting the engine. There was no battery, because there was no electric starter. Muscle power was used to start the engine, and I understand that operating the hand crank could be a difficult and even dangerous endeavor.

Then there was the power take-off (PTO), and I’m calling it a PTO only because it provided power to other implements. The PTO on the Fordson F wasn’t the splined shaft found on the backs of modern tractors and even more recent vintage tractors like the John Deere Model 40 or the Massey Ferguson 135. This PTO was located on the side of the tractor in the form of a spinning cylinder (called a pulley, or belt pulley) to which a belt could be attached to transfer rotational power to an implement.

Historical Value

I’m fascinated by the Fordson F from a tractor history standpoint, but I wouldn’t want to use one for farming. I’m thankful that technological advancements have given us rubber tires, electric starters and splined PTOs.

I suppose it has something to do with what seems “normal” to me. Maybe farmers who have only ever used modern tractors with hydrostatic transmissions would feel the same skepticism about the geared transmissions of the John Deere Model 40 and Massey Ferguson 135.

But in any case, I think we can all be glad at how much progress tractors have made over the last century. And with that in mind, who knows what the next century will bring? Maybe electric tractors will rise to the forefront and farmers of the future will look back on our gasoline and diesel engines and wonder how we ever got along with oil changes and fuel filters.

Categories
Animals Farm & Garden Large Animals

Identifying & Avoiding Toxic Plants for Sheep 

Anyone who owns sheep wants to keep them as healthy and happy as possible … right? Ensuring their health and well-being  is essential for sustainable farming practices. Curious about the plants in my pasture, I discovered an app called Picture This for my iPhone that is probably the best one I have found (and I have tried many) for identifying grasses and other plants out in a pasture.  

In addition to knowing which plants are the most nutritious, another crucial aspect of sheep care is understanding and preventing their exposure to poisonous plants. I struggled with identifying grasses, for instance, and just didn’t feel confident that my pastures were offering the best nutrition. 

Safety First

Maintaining a safe environment for sheep is a top priority for any shepherd or livestock owner. Being knowledgeable about poisonous plants can help prevent potentially fatal incidents in your flock. By understanding the types of plants that can harm sheep, you can take proactive measures to ensure their safety. 

It all started when, after purchasing my plant app, I grew curious about the really tall, wide-leafed grass plant up by the front of one pasture.  To my dismay, the plant was johnsongrass (Sorgham halepense), which is a species of sorghum.  According to the Ohio State University Sheep Team, sudan grass and sorghums are cyanogenic plants. These plants are usually deadly when damaged or frozen. Under conditions like this, the plants contain prussic acid (hydrocyanic acid), a deadly poison that interferes with the oxygen-carrying ability of the blood.

toxic plants sheep
Jana Wilson

Death in these cases is usually rapid and with little outward symptoms. After discovering that, I plan to cut down the small patch that I have before it goes to seed and try to contain it that way. 

Every part of the country is different, but it’s good to know what you have in your pasture, whether you use a phone app or consult your county extension agent.   

The Danger List 

Johnsongrass isn’t the only plant on the toxic list, though. Though your area may have more or different dangerous plants, here are a few more plants that are toxic to sheep that I keep an eye out for. 

Buckthorn (Rhamnus spp.)

Buckthorn is a shrub that is toxic to sheep. Its leaves and fruit contain compounds that can lead to gastrointestinal distress and even death in severe cases. It’s crucial to identify and remove buckthorn from grazing areas to prevent accidental ingestion by sheep.

Nightshades (Solanum spp.)

Nightshades, including plants like horsenettle and black nightshade, are known for their toxic effects on sheep. Unfortunately, I have quite a bit of horse nettle in part of my pastures. I dig them up as soon as I find them!  

These plants contain solanine, a poisonous alkaloid that can cause a range of symptoms such as drooling, diarrhea and convulsions. Regular monitoring of grazing areas can help prevent sheep from consuming nightshades. 

Hemlock (Conium spp.)

Hemlock is a highly toxic plant that poses a significant risk to sheep. Ingesting even small amounts of hemlock can lead to paralysis and respiratory failure. Identifying hemlock and removing it from pastures and foraging areas is essential to safeguarding sheep from this deadly plant. 

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

Foxglove is a beautiful but poisonous plant that contains cardiac glycosides. Ingesting parts of the foxglove plant can cause heart irregularities, vomiting and death in sheep.  

Pasture Management 

It’s a really good idea to inspect and maintain grazing areas, as it is crucial to prevent sheep from encountering poisonous plants. Take a walk around your pastures and look for toxic plants.   

Installing sturdy fencing around grazing areas can help prevent sheep from accessing potentially harmful plants. This physical barrier can be an effective way to keep sheep away from toxic vegetation … even though your pasture is safe, the areas outside the fence may not be. 

As I mentioned before, your local agricultural extension offices often provide resources and expertise on plant identification and management. Connecting with these offices can help you access region-specific information to protect your sheep from toxic plants. 

Ensuring the health and safety of sheep really requires a comprehensive understanding of the poisonous plants that can pose a threat to them. I encourage you to look on your own at sites like the Ohio State University Sheep Team, where you can get a fuller idea of what plants you need to watch for. 

By staying informed about these plants and implementing preventive measures such as proper pasture management, fencing and education, you can create a safer environment for your flock. Proactive management really is key to maintaining the well-being of your sheep! 

Categories
Animals Beginning Farmers Farm & Garden Large Animals

Prevention & Anemia Signs, Symptoms In Sheep

At this point in the summer, when the heat is so intense for several days in a row, health issues in sheep or goats can quickly escalate beyond treatment. All small ruminant animal owners fear parasite overload and diseases, and now is the time to check sheep daily for signs of anemia. Animals’ ability to fight these issues can be severely compromised in the hot summer heat.

What Is Anemia?

Simply stated, anemia means a deficiency of red blood cells. When red blood cell counts plummet, animals’ bodies aren’t creating new cells. Energy and oxygen levels are affected, and the ruminants’ bodies go into a state of starvation. 

Parasites quickly become prolific and consume the blood faster than the animal can regenerate new blood cells. 

Symptoms of anemia include but are not limited to:

  • Weight loss
  • Poor appetite
  • Lethargy 
  • Complications delivering and nursing babies
  • Brain fog
  • Dullness of fur (not glossy and smooth)
  • Pale gums
  • Pale eyelids
  • Diarrhea
  • Bottle jaw

Causes of anemia include nutritional deficiencies of trace minerals, parasitic diseases, toxic plant consumption, injuries with excessive blood loss, copper poisoning, other diseases spread through tick bites and more. 

Treatment

It is critical to obtain a diagnosis from a veterinarian before treating anemia in sheep, goats and other ruminants. Knowing the reason for the anemia will be crucial for the vet to choose a course of treatment.

Treatment varies for parasitic infestations and other causes. By far, the most common cause of anemia is parasitic infestation. But you will want to diagnose the cause with certainty before treating the sheep or goats. It can take a ruminant animal six to eight weeks to recover with focused treatment.

Even after that, the animal will need extra monitoring.

Prevention

Defense against anemia can be covered a few ways. In regards to anemia resulting from parasite overload, deworming protocols and nutritional supplements are good prevention strategies. Placing mineral and protein blocks in your sheep and goat pens is very important, as they will eat it free choice.

Sufficient hay and grass is necessary as well. If they don’t have good quality hay and grass, they will forage on poor quality roughage. Keep in mind green hay is the most nutritious, while faded brown has lower value. 

The best step for prevention is continuous monitoring. Checking gums and eyelids frequently will serve you well in the long run. You can also run stool tests when their health becomes questionable and see a vet to have blood counts checked.

And, especially in this summer heat, make certain to never let your animals become dehydrated. Dehydration will speed up the devastating effect anemia has on sheep and other animals. 

Categories
Crops & Gardening Farm & Garden

5 Edible Flowers To Grow In Your Garden

When I think of garden abundance, I often consider edible flowers a part of that abundance. Perhaps that isn’t exactly what comes to mind when the term “garden produce” is mentioned. Tomatoes, corn and beans would be a much more obvious choice.

But for centuries edible flowers have been found in cultures all over the world. They are often found garnishing beautiful dishes and adding color, vibrance and unique flavors. And edible flowers go beyond just beauty. They are practical, too.

Many edible flowers are incredibly nutritious and an excellent source of antioxidants. So here are five edible flowers to consider adding to your plate.

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtium (pictured above) may be one of the most well known edible flowers in the garden. Nasturtium blooms come in a range of oranges, reds and yellows, and have a peppery taste that really adds something special to a salad.

Not only are the blooms edible, but the leaves are edible as well. Actually, the entire nasturtium plant is edible. You can even harvest the seeds and use them to make capers!

Pansy (Viola tricolor)

edible flowers pansies
malykalexa777/Adobe Stock

Is there a more iconic flower than the pansy? I can’t even recall a spring during my childhood that we didn’t take the time to plant a few of these cheerful blooms out.

But did you realize they are edible? Admittedly, I did not. An entire childhood of wasted flower-snacking opportunities!

These gorgeous flowers are edible, and with their beautiful range of colors, they make the perfect bloom to candy! Candied pansies make beautiful garnishes for bakery items. But if you want to skip the candying step, they also are a wonderful additional pop of color to salads or, really, any dish!

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

dandelion edible flowers
FuzullHanum/Adobe Stock

Dandelions may just seem like a weed in your garden, but the truth is dandelions are actually a tasty snack. Dandelion flowers can easily be used to make teas and jellies. Dandelions can even be used to make dandelion syrup!

As for the greens, even they are edible. Harvest the young leaves, ideally before the plant flowers, and chop them up to add an incredibly nutritious punch to any salad! Just be careful where you harvest your dandelions from. You want to be careful and avoid lawns sprayed with herbicide, insecticide and so forth.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

chamomile edible flowers
cosma/Adobe Stock

Most people are familiar with chamomile, or at very least chamomile tea. But not everyone realizes that chamomile is a beautiful and delicate flower. 

Chamomile flowers have been used medicinally for centuries and are touted for a whole host of medicinal benefits ranging from reducing inflammation to promoting better sleep. Most commonly chamomile is enjoyed as a tea. But chamomile can also be used to make oil infusions and tinctures.

Squash Blossoms (Cucurbita spp.)

edible flowers squash blossoms
nikolaydonetsk/Adobe Stock

Both summer squash and winter squash are delicious vegetables to enjoy from the garden. But not everyone knows that squash blossoms are edible as well!

While both female and male blossoms from squash plants are edible, the female blossom bears fruit while the male blossom pollinates the female blooms. For the best of both worlds and an ample crop of both blooms (as well as squash), harvest predominantly the male blossoms. They are delicious stuffed and fried and make the perfect summer treat. 

Overall, all of the above edible flowers on this list are tasty treats. Not only can they elevate your dishes with beautiful garnishes and unique flavors, but they can also be medicinal and packed with nutritional benefits. So get out there and eat flowers!

Categories
Crops & Gardening Farm & Garden Food Recipes

Recipe: Nectarine Caprese Salad Is The Perfect Summer Salad  

It’s likely that you’ve had the classic Caprese salad with vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and fresh basil, drizzled with either olive oil or balsamic glaze. But, have you ever had a Caprese salad with a stone fruit such as nectarine? The simple addition of stone fruit changes the entire experience and is the ideal summer salad to incorporate into your family’s meal plan.  

Decades ago, when my aunt was on a work trip in Toronto, she dined out and was served a similar salad. She loved it and, when she returned home, made her own version. She has been making it every summer (all summer) since—and we never tire of it.

This is the perfect summer salad. 

I have suggestions of how to cut, prep and size the ingredients in this recipe, but it’s completely up to you. If you want large chunks of tomato, whole leaves of basil and slices of nectarine instead—do that. 

Serves: 4 to 6 

Ingredients 

Main
  • 2 large heirloom tomatoes (2 cups chunked) 
  • 1-2 nectarines, cubed (1 cup) 
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced and quartered (or 8 oz of the small “cherry size” fresh mozzarella balls) 
  • 15 basil leaves, ribboned 
  • Salt and pepper, to taste 
Balsamic Vinaigrette 
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced 
  • Dash of salt and pepper 

(Store vinaigrette in the refrigerator after use.) 

Instructions 

Wash produce and prep it per recipe. Mix all of the Caprese salad ingredients together gently.  

To make the vinaigrette, mix all ingredients together in a pint canning jar, add the lid and ring, and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well blended. 

Add 2 to 4 tablespoons of the vinaigrette to the Caprese salad and mix again. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Best if eaten within one to two days. 

Notes 

If you want to skip the balsamic vinaigrette, then just add 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar into the salad or 2 tablespoons of olive oil instead. 

While I adore a nectarine Caprese salad, any stone fruit will work with this recipe. All will yield a delicious outcome. 

I often substitute 8 ounces of burrata in place of the sliced mozzarella in this recipe. The creamy inside of the burrata tastes pretty incredible blended with the fresh tomato and nectarine. 

Categories
Animals Beekeeping Beginning Farmers Farm & Garden Poultry

Food Is A Love Language At Bee The Change Microfarm

When Susanna Seidensticker and her partner took a local community college class on natural beekeeping, the experience helped inspire the couple to search for a house with enough space to pursue their sustainable living ambitions.

“We were thrilled when we were able to afford a house on an acre of land as we truly thought that much space was out of the question for us,” explains Seidensticker, who now runs the organic Bee The Change Microfarm in Willits, California. “We hit the ground running and immediately got a few beehives, with chickens following shortly after, and the rest is history!”

Taking a moment away from forest farming duties, we spoke to Seidensticker about keeping things sustainable and the benefits of quail eggs. We also got the scoop on pickling watermelon.

Steps to Sustainability

Poultry has become a vital part of Bee The Change Microfarm. Seidensticker says that she was a vegetarian for a number of years before meeting her partner. When she began incorporating meat back into her diet, she wanted to do so in “the most sustainable and humane way possible.”

Quail emerged as a natural fit for the farm’s needs. “We were working with limited space. But more than that, [quail] mature extremely quickly, making them a great choice for meat,” says Seidensticker.

Spotlighting Quail Eggs

Going deeper into the advantages of raising quail, Seidensticker says that they produce nutritionally dense eggs.

“Interestingly, they contain no risk of salmonella due to the fact that their body temperature naturally runs too high for the bacteria to exist, making them ideal for raw applications,” she adds.

Pickling Watermelon

When faced with a variety of watermelon that “would split on the vine no matter how carefully I watered,” Seidensticker decided to try pickling the fruit.

“I didn’t want to waste them, so I decided to pickle them in the same way one would pickle the rinds,” she explains. “I used pickling lime to keep them crisp, which ended up being a bit more time intensive than I intended. But they turned out tasty.”

Food as Love Language

“Running a farm is infinitely hard and infinitely rewarding at the same time,” says Seidensticker, weighing up her sustainability journey so far. “Food is my love language, and being able to feed the people I care about with produce I’ve grown or animals I’ve raised is just so special to me. Likewise, being able to provide food for my community is an absolute privilege.”

“There’s also something magical about taking a plot of land and bringing life to it,” she adds. “Watching bees, butterflies, birds and frogs show up where once there were none, seeing worms in soil that was once lifeless—it’s not an easy life, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Follow Bee The Change Microfarm on Instagram.

Categories
Animals Chicken Coops & Housing Farm & Garden Poultry

Winners: Chickens 2023 Best Of Cluck Photo Contest

And the winners are! Here are the winners and some honorable mentions in each of the five categories of our annual Best of Cluck photo contest. 

Cutest Chick

Sponsored by Hobby Farms & EG Media

Winning Prize: a $50 gift card, a 1-year subscription to Hobby Farms magazine and a copy of Best of Hobby Farms 2023. 

Winner
Best of Cluck
Haley Waters | Lynn Haven, Florida
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Jennifer Garcia | Terrell, Texas

Best Group

Sponsored by Mt. Healthy Hatcheries.

Winning Prize: a $100 gift certificate to Mt. Healthy Hatcheries

Winner
Best of Cluck
Ashley Thomas | Azle, Texas
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Lynn Mullens | Redding, California
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Hanna Bomblies | Williston, Vermont

Best Hen

Sponsored by Brinsea Products.

Winning Prize: A ChickSafe Eco Automatic Chicken Coop Door (retail value: $150). This tough and reliable system automatically opens the coop door in the morning and closes it in the evening as light levels fall, keeping your birds save and giving you peace of mind. 

Winner
Best of Cluck
Alisha Steele | Madison, Wisconsin
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Bradley Brossard | Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Best Rooster

Sponsored by Murray McMurray Hatchery.

Winning Prize: a $100 gift certificate to Murray McMurray’s online store for poultry and/or other merchandise. 

Winner
Best of Cluck
Jennifer Garcia | Terrell, Texas
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Linda Harrison | Woodland, California
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Alesia Moffatt | Willits, California

Coolest Coop

Sponsored by Chickens magazine & EG Media

Winning Prize: $100 gift card to build more coops! 

Winner
Best of Cluck
Brianna Kannon | Hitchcock, Oklahoma
Runner Up
Best of Cluck
Jordan Knutson | Richmond, Utah

Honorable Mentions

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of Cluck

Best of CluckBest of Cluck This Best of Cluck photo gallery of contest winners originally appeared in the July/August 2023 issue of Chickens magazine.

Categories
Podcast

Episode 59: Denà Brummer


Denà Brummer talks farming, gardening and building a life around food in this episode of Hobby Farms Presents: Growing Good.

Hear about Denà’s journey from reading the recipes in Seventeen magazine to throwing epic house parties that were all about the food to studying culinary arts and growing her own food. And now she teaches others about these things! Hear about her new On The Grow business, centered around educating folks about health, lifestyles and habits related to food, picking up where home economics and gardening classes left off. 

Learn about the Garden of Hope community garden, which Denà manages for the City of Hope cancer center. She talks about the Garden of Hope community education programs,  kid-powered farmers market, Produce for Patients food distribution and the upcoming Farmacy work-trade program.

Denà tells us about the Multinational Exchange for Sustainable Agriculture nonprofit and its pay-what-you-can networking, international education and fellowship programs. She acts as an Agroecology Fellows Mentor, “breathing life into people’s dreams,” as she explains it. 

Denà shares her personal philosophy behind producing and sharing food, no matter the scale. Hear also about her teaching in the Fundamentals of Food Communication class at the University of Southern California’s Annenburg School of Communication and Journalism.

At the end, Denà shares her favorite food to cook for others.