If you're like me and love both gardening and raising chickens, Lisa Steele's 'Gardening with Chickens' is an absolute game-changer. This book is packed with 170 pages of practical advice that bridges the gap between these two passions seamlessly.
What sets this book apart is how it goes beyond basic gardening tips. Steele dives deep into how specific plants benefit chickens—something I've struggled to find in other resources. The herb section was particularly eye-opening for me as I learned about natural health boosters for my flock.
The real genius lies in the seasonal approach. I never considered using my chickens as natural garden tillers after harvest season until reading this. My birds now happily scratch through my spent vegetable beds, fertilizing as they go (though I always remember to remove nightshades first—thanks Lisa!).
While the book does cover keeping chickens out of gardens (a reality we all face), it offers brilliant solutions like strategic fencing and timing poultry access. The 'chicken salad bar' project has become a favorite feature in my coop area.
What makes this guide special is its universal appeal—whether you're in freezing winters or scorching summers, the advice adapts beautifully. The stunning photography and clear writing make complex concepts accessible to beginners while offering depth for experienced keepers.
After dog-earing nearly every page, I can confidently say this book has transformed how I integrate my chickens into my gardening routine. It's not just informative—it's genuinely inspiring. Even if you don't have chickens yet (like one reviewer mentioned), this book might just push you over the edge to start your flock!