Why Pasture-Raised Chickens Need More Than Just Grass

Clover & Chickens: A Natural Match for Healthier Flocks

Raising chickens on pasture is deeply rewarding - but it’s not as simple as turning birds loose on a grassy field. While grass looks abundant, it doesn’t fully meet the nutritional and environmental needs of a flock.

Many pasture poultry farmers face challenges like:

• Rising feed costs as grain prices continue to climb
• Limited forage diversity (grass lacks key nutrients)
• Flock health concerns like weaker immune systems and parasite pressure
• Soil degradation from overgrazing and erosion

This is where clover comes in. Far more than just another plant in the pasture, clover is a powerhouse forage that supports both chickens and the soil they rely on.

The Clover Advantage: Why Chickens Thrive on It

Clover isn’t just another pasture plant—it’s a multi-benefit forage that works for both chickens and farmers.

1. Protein & Nutrient Powerhouse

Chickens require protein for growth, strong eggshells, and vibrant yolks. Clover - especially varieties like White, Crimson, and Balansa - is rich in highly digestible protein, vitamins, and minerals.

That translates into:

• Stronger eggshells and richer yolks
• Faster growth rates for meat birds
• Lower dependence on expensive commercial feed

2. Natural Parasite & Stress Control

Pastures with diverse clover stands encourage birds to scratch, forage, and spread out. This lowers stress (a major flock health factor) and helps break parasite cycles by keeping birds moving across the pasture.

3. Soil Health & Long-Term Sustainability

Clover does double duty by nourishing both birds and the land:

• Fixes nitrogen → reduces fertilizer needs and fuels grass growth
• Protects soil → deep roots help prevent erosion
• Builds resilience → adds organic matter, making pastures more productive year after year

Common Problems Clover Solves

Best Clover Varieties for Chickens

Not all clovers are the same. Here are top choices for poultry pastures:

• White Clover (Ladino/Dutch): Low-growing, resilient, ideal for continuous grazing   
• Crimson Clover: High biomass, bright red blooms, attracts pollinators
• Balansa Clover (Fixation): Cold-tolerant, reseeding, excellent protein levels
• Persian Clover: Lush growth in moist soils, highly palatable

Practical Tips for Establishing Clover

1. Overseed into existing pastures in spring or fall for strong establishment.
2. Mix clover with grasses (like ryegrass or fescue) to diversify forage.
3. Rotate pastures so clover has time to regrow and avoid overgrazing.
4. Provide grit and clean water - essential for digesting forage.
5. Track results by monitoring egg quality, growth rates, and feed savings.

Real Results Growers with Clover

• 20–30% lower feed bills thanks to forage supplementation
• Deep orange yolks that consumers notice and prefer
• Healthier flocks with better weight gain and fewer parasite issues
• Improved pastures that get stronger instead of weaker over time

Quick FAQs

Q: Is clover safe for chickens?

Yes. Clover is highly digestible and packed with protein, calcium, and vitamins.

Q: Can clover replace feed?

No. It’s a supplement, not a complete diet. Clover can cut grain use by up to 30%, but a balanced feed remains essential.

Q: What’s best for backyard flocks?

White and crimson clover are easy to grow, withstand grazing, and provide excellent nutrition.

Q: Will clover overtake my pasture?

No. Managed with proper grazing rotation, clover enriches soil and balances naturally with grasses.

Final Takeaway: Clover Is a Win-Win

For farmers raising chickens on pasture, overseeding clover is one of the most cost-effective, sustainable steps you can take. It boosts egg quality, strengthens flock health, reduces feed bills, and regenerates soil—creating a system where birds, land, and farmer all thrive.

If you’re ready to get more from your pasture, start with clover. Your chickens—and your bottom line—will thank you.

👉 Ready to move forward with adding clover for your pasture-raised chickens? Explore our premium clover seed mix - Cluck & Clover - designed for stronger chickens, healthier soil, and thriving ecosystems.