The Kitchen Garden

July/August 2005

Leafing through the informative Practical Poultry Magazine (subs 01959 541400), I came across an article on raising chicks naturally - meaning under broodies as opposed to incubated. There were photos of mother hens in cages with slats, through which the chicks could come and go, but the broody was stuck, unable to protect her young.

I know that, at the Kitchen Garden, we are exceptionally lucky not to have a wide range of predators, but even if you cage your mums and babes, at least let them be caged together.

Books (mostly by breeders) imply that cockerels and other members of the flock are dangerous to chicks, but for the last 5 years, I've only kept them caged for a few days and then let them into the main run (after the adult occupants have left for the garden in the morning). Mums have taken their small broods out into the great unknown of the garden at their discretion - usually at about a week old.

They take good care of their babes, sticking to the hedges and garden edges, and so far we've had not disasters. Mums teach their chicks invaluable lessons - broody raised birds are more streetwise than their incubated cousins - and if you're around to supervise, it could be worth taking the risk to raise your chicks really naturally.

Commencing at 10.00am and finish around 3.30pm. Cost per person is £75.00 including lunch - maximum 12 people per course. Cheque payment in full on booking please. Refunds (minus £20.00 administration charge) offered for cancellations within a month of the course date, but we suggest if you can't make it you try to find a friend to take your place. If we have to cancel, you will of course receive a full refund. Call 01359 268322 to book.

There will also be a course held at Assington Mill on Wednesday 28th September at a cost of £70.00 including lunch. Telephone 01787 229955 for details and directions.