The Artistic Garden

Nurturing gardens and cultivating creativity.

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Welcome to my creative corner, where art and nature converge. As an artist and gardener on a small tree farm, I find inspiration in the beauty and wonder of the natural world. My farm is a haven for a variety of creatures, including chickens, ducks, and rabbits, and is home to a diverse array of fruits, herbs, and vegetables, all grown using organic practices. My art reflects the beauty and magic of this special place. I draw upon my experiences as a gardener and artist to create children’s picture books that use nature to address important issues and promote positive social growth and well-being. Through my work, I aim to inspire a deeper connection with the natural world and to foster a sense of wonder and curiosity in children and adults alike.

Adding a Touch of Whimsy to Your Garden: Keeping Ducks and Chickens

As a nature-loving enthusiast and children’s book author, I’m thrilled to share my experience with keeping ducks and chickens in my garden. These feathered friends not only provide an entertainment resource for my short stories but also contribute to a thriving ecosystem.

Benefits of Keeping Ducks and Chickens

The antics and quirks of chickens and ducks can provide endless inspiration for storytelling, from silly adventures to heartwarming moments. They maintain a pecking order so there are always squabbles about who is in charge.
Ducks and chickens love to snack on insects, slugs, and snails, reducing the need for pesticides and maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
Their manure is a natural fertilizer great for enriching the soil and promoting healthy plant growth. With composting, I generally create one pile of their used bedding every six months, layered with grass clippings and weeds, and use it the following year in the garden.
Fresh eggs from your own backyard are a delicious and nutritious reward for your efforts. I love the duck eggs and chicken eggs equally but the duck eggs tend to be bigger.

Tips for Keeping Ducks and Chickens

Ensure your coop is well-ventilated, predator-proof, and easy to clean. Eventually predators will find your flock so a strong coop is your best investment.
Supplement their feed with fruits and vegetables to keep them happy and healthy. Chickens and ducks are omnivors. I grain mine with all flock layer feed daily but alway give them fruit and veggies from my garden.
Provide adequate space for your ducks and chickens to be entertained and stimulated. My birds are kept in a 70×200 foot fenced yard that has several trees and bushes for them to explore and I also allow them to roam around outside their yard to rummage through the front gardens for bugs.

By incorporating ducks and chickens into your garden, you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of fresh eggs and pest control but also create a unique and engaging outdoor space that’s perfect for relaxation and entertainment. So why not give it a try? Your garden and your feathered friends will thank you!

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