Pittsburgh Backyard Farming: Growing Fodder The PBF Way

Growing Fodder The PBF Way

This is our second attempt in growing fodder for our hens. The first time was an epic fail that resulted in a smelly moldy mess! So our last attempt was ended quickly. We are at it again however, this time we've done our research!

Why should you grow fodder???

(Some great links to get you started)

Mother Earth News

Fresh Eggs Daily

Growingfodder.com

Ask yourself a few of these questions...

What do I expect out of this?
Am I using this as a treat or a supplement instead of pellets?
Do I have time?
Do I have the proper equipment needed?

What you'll need:

Untreated preferable organic grain. This can be wheat, barley, oats, rye, clover, sunflower, or alpha. We like to have a mixture of 2 or 3 different types!
7-10 Aluminum disposable pans.
Bleach (very little)
Baking soda
Bucket or bowls
Spray bottle
Some type of shelving unit

Step 1:

Gather all your materials. It's better to have it all together before actually starting. The hardest part will be finding your grains! Just remember it can't be treated. If it is it wont sprout! After you find your grain of.

choice you are ready to start!

Step 2:

You're gonna want to determine how much grain you're going to need in each of the pans. To do this, take one of your empty pans and fill so its about an inch deep with a mixture of the grains.

Step 3:

Once determined the amount needed take your grains and put them in the bucket. Fill the bucket up with water. More is better but just make sure all the grain is.covered. With the bucket filled go ahead and put a very small amount of bleach in the water. Give it a swirl and let it sit for at least 12 but no more then 24 hours.

Be sure to scoop out the floating seeds!

Step 4:

Once you get your grains soaking, take your pans and poke 20-30 holes in the bottom. This will allow the water to drain after you water.

Step 5:
After your gains have soaked for 12-24 hours go ahead and pour a the bucket of grains into the pans. As you pour the water will drain out from the bottom. When you have all the grains in a pan, level them out. After soaking the grains you'll notice they've swelled up and you'll have about 1.5 inches instead of 1 inch! This is right where you want it! Any more and you'll have seeds that wont sprout!

Step 6:
When you have your pans filled and leveled get some water and rinse the grains! Rinsing will remove any left over bleach!

Step 7:
Put your pans on your shelving unit. It will take 5-7 days for them to be ready! Everyday the pans need watered at least twice a day. Also once a day take your spray bottle and make a mixture of water/ baking soda. This will help with mold growth.