Omega-3 fatty acids are an important component of a healthy diet. One way to get this substance in our food is to eat eggs from chickens raised on a diet that promotes the formation of Omega-3s right in the egg.

This blend is planted for chicken forage to achieve this high Omega-3 result. University studies show significantly higher Omega-3s in eggs from hens who can forage in pasture instead of just eating an industrial diet. Our mix has the alfalfa, clover, and flax that increase Omega-3s in eggs.

• Application Rate: 2-3 pounds per 1,000 sq. ft. or 50 pounds per acre
• Inoculant: None needed, is nitrocoated
• Plant Height: 2-3'
• Uses: Forage for chickens and other fowl.
• Facts to Note: Contains intermediate ryegrass, Tetraploid perennial ryegrass, common Flax, Buckwheat, Tetraploid annual ryegrass, Rye grain, Japanese Millet, Red clover (OMRI listed coating), Strawberry clover (OMRI listed coating), Alfalfa (OMRI listed coating), Ladino clover (OMRI listed coating), Broadleaf Trefoil (OMRI listed coating)

PLANTING: Plant annually after danger of frost has passed. Caution: Flax can form prussic acid when exposed to frost so do not graze horses on this mix. Keep moist until germination (5-10 days) and then water regularly, depending on your soil type.

SOWING IN SOIL: Keep your birds away from the newly seeded area or they will eat the seed before it has a chance to germinate. When the mix is 2-5" tall turn the chickens loose on the planted area until they have eaten the grasses about half way down.

SOWING IN FLATS: For chickens that stay in runs, plant some Forage Blend in a 17" square flat. Add soil, sow thickly, follow the growing instructions above, then place the flat in the chicken run and let them eat it all up.

Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend - A Nutrient-Rich Feed Option

Introduction

The Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend is a specially formulated seed mixture designed to provide a natural and nutritious diet for chickens. This blend consists of a variety of seeds and plants that are carefully selected to offer a range of health benefits to your feathered friends. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, benefits, and how to use this feed blend to enhance the well-being of your chickens.

Ingredients

The Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend comprises several key ingredients that contribute to its nutritional value:

1. Intermediate Ryegrass: High in fiber, moderate protein, and vitamins; good for grazing and balanced poultry diets.
2. Tetraploid Perennial Ryegrass: Nutrient-dense with higher sugar and protein content, offering energy and improved digestibility for chickens.
3. Tetraploid Annual Ryegrass: Rich in digestible proteins and carbohydrates, providing energy and fiber for poultry.
4. Rye Grain: High in fiber, moderate protein, and some essential vitamins, though low digestibility can limit use for chickens.
5. Buckwheat: High in protein, vitamins, and antioxidants; a good energy source, boosts overall health in poultry diets.
6. Red Clover: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals; enhances egg production and overall health.
7. Flax: Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and moderate protein, promoting healthy feathers and egg quality.
8. Strawberry Clover: High in protein and fiber, nitrogen-fixing legume that improves egg production and poultry health.
9. Alfalfa: High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, improving digestion, egg quality, and overall health.
10. Japanese Millet: Rich in carbohydrates and moderate protein, providing energy for poultry growth and maintenance.
11. Ladino Clover: High-protein legume with vitamins and minerals; enhances poultry health, egg production, and growth.
12. Birdsfoot Broadleaf Trefoil: High in protein, fiber, and tannins, aids in digestion and provides sustained energy for chickens.

Benefits of Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend

1. Enhanced Omega-3 Levels in Eggs: The high flax content in this blend can lead to an increase in omega-3 fatty acids in chicken eggs. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for human health and can make your eggs more nutritious.

2. Improved Soil Health: Planting this blend not only benefits your chickens but also enhances the quality of your soil. Clover and buckwheat, for instance, are known for their soil-improving properties.

3. Balanced Nutrition: The mixture of various seeds and plants ensures a well-rounded diet for your chickens, providing them with the essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins they need for optimal health and egg production.

4. Natural Foraging: Chickens are natural foragers, and this blend allows them to exhibit their natural behavior by scratching and pecking for food. It keeps them engaged and active.

5. Better Egg Yolk Color: The inclusion of kale and other greens can result in richer, more vibrant egg yolks, which are visually appealing and indicative of a healthier diet.

How to Use Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend

Using the Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend is relatively straightforward:

1. Planting: Scatter the seeds across your chicken run or designated foraging area. Ensure even distribution to encourage uniform growth.

2. Watering: Regular watering is essential to support seed germination and plant growth. Keep the area moist until the plants are well-established.

3. Maintenance: Monitor the growth of the plants, and ensure that they are not overgrazed by your chickens. Trim and allow regrowth as needed to maintain a sustainable foraging environment.

4. Harvest: Depending on your chicken flock size and the growth of the forage blend, you can allow your chickens to forage freely or harvest and feed the plants to them periodically.

The Omega-3 Chicken Forage Blend offers a natural and nutritious feed option for your chickens. With a carefully selected mix of seeds and plants, this blend provides various health benefits, including enhanced omega-3 levels in eggs, improved soil health, and balanced nutrition. By incorporating this blend into your chicken's diet, you can promote their overall well-being and enjoy the benefits of healthier eggs.

Chicken foraging photos courtesy of Jayme Jenkins, Nest In Style blog (growing in a flat tray); and Bonnie Manion, Vintage Garden Gal blog (growing in a round shape inside a removable wire cylinder). Thanks to the bloggers and their hens.

NOTE to Certified Organic Growers: All our cover crop seed is untreated, non-GMO seed. The legume seed in this mix is coated with Nitro-Coat Organic, an OMRI listed organic coating. This coating uses all organic ingredients: the proper rhizobacteria, a Calcium Carbonate coating that is naturally water absorbing to speed seed germination, and an OMRI listed organic adhesive.

Shipping Weight: 1.1 lb

Dimensions: 8.0"L x 6.0"W x 1.5"H

• Fixes Nitrogen
• Requires Summer Water