Is Creeping Thyme Safe For Chickens?

Creeping thyme is a low-growing, spreading thyme that makes an excellent groundcover in many situations. But is it safe to plant in areas accessible to chickens? This is an important question for any chicken keeper looking to incorporate creeping thyme into their landscaping or chicken run. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at creeping thyme and chicken safety.

What is Creeping Thyme?

Creeping thyme (Thymus praecox) is a low-growing species of thyme that hugs the ground as it spreads. It grows just 1 to 2 inches tall but can spread over 12 inches wide. The small rounded leaves emerge light green in spring turning darker green in summer. Light purple or pink flowers bloom in summer as well.

There are many different cultivars of creeping thyme to choose from, including:

• Pink Chintz – light pink flowers
• White Moss – white flowers
• Elfin – very small leaves
• Red Creeping – deep pink flowers
• Woolly – silver leaves

Creeping thyme makes a nice groundcover for open sunny areas and also grows well in the spaces between pavers or stepping stones It releases a pleasant aroma when walked on The dense growth also helps choke out weeds,

Is Creeping Thyme Safe For Chickens?

The good news is that yes, creeping thyme is safe for chickens!

Thyme is non-toxic to chickens and provides some benefits as well. Here’s an overview of creeping thyme and chickens:

• Edible – Chickens can eat both the leaves and flowers of creeping thyme. It provides trace vitamins and minerals. The antioxidant, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties of thyme may also boost chicken health.

• Withstands Pecking – Creeping thyme holds up well to chicken scratching and pecking. The woody stems and spread of thyme allows it to recover even with chicken traffic.

• Flavor – Some chicken keepers report that thyme imparts a pleasant flavor to eggs and meat. This is not proven but makes sense given the volatile oils in thyme.

• Insect Repellent – Thyme contains thymol oil which naturally repels insects like mosquitoes and flies. Planting thyme can help reduce pests in a chicken run or coop.

• Ornamental – With delicate looking flowers and interesting leaf shapes and colors, creeping thyme serves as a beautiful living ornamental groundcover.

So in terms of safety, creeping thyme checks out as a chicken-friendly groundcover option. Make sure to plant it in areas chickens already access so they get accustomed to it. Chickens can be suspicious of new plants at first.

Growing Creeping Thyme For Chickens

When growing creeping thyme for chickens, here are some useful tips:

• Plant it in a sunny location. Creeping thyme thrives best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

• Prepare a well-draining soil. Thyme hates wet feet. Incorporate sand or small gravel into heavy, clay soils before planting.

• Space plants 8-12 inches apart. This allows them to spread and form a mat.

• Cut back thyme by 1/3 after flowering. This encourages a dense, compact habit.

• Add a thin layer of gravel or mulch after planting. This prevents weeds and mud buildup until the thyme fills in.

• Consider planting thyme around coops or nest boxes for insect control. The chickens will also nibble the abundant leaves.

• Plant thyme between pavers or stones. Chickens can still walk on the pavers but enjoy nibbling the thyme.

With proper siting and care, creeping thyme should thrive and spread in a chicken run. It’s one of the best rugged groundcovers for high traffic areas. The chickens will enjoy the added greens and insect habitat it provides. Let your chickens try this classic herb and see if they approve!

Other Chicken-Safe Groundcovers

Creeping thyme is just one of many groundcover plants that are safe for chickens. Here are a few other options to consider:

Chamomile – Grows just 4-6 inches tall and spreads readily when trodden on. Provides greens, flowers, and insect habitat. Withstands foot traffic.

Clover – Different clover species spread aggressively to form living green carpets. Provides nitrogen fixation and chicken forage.

Creeping Mint – Spreads vigorously with foot traffic and choking out weeds. Provides minty greens. Repels insects.

Creeping Jenny – An aggressive spreader that thrives under foot traffic. Provides dense mat for bugs.

Strawberries – Produces edible berries. Runners spread well in high traffic areas.

Moss – Dense, low growth that chickens won’t eat. Softens high use areas and prevents mud.

These are just a few examples of chicken-friendly groundcovers to consider. Always research any new plant thoroughly before placing it in a chicken run. Ensure it is non-toxic to chickens and can withstand their scratching habits. Then watch your feathered friends enjoy the new greens!