The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Goats => Topic started by: Penninehillbilly on October 19, 2017, 12:54:38 pm

Title: Bracken v ferns
Post by: Penninehillbilly on October 19, 2017, 12:54:38 pm

I know Bracken is a no-no for livestock, but what about ferns? I have a banking which I could really do with getting the goats on to, but has lots of Ferns and they love them.
Reason I'm asking, Bracken is considered dangerous and carcogenic, yet Ferns are grown in gardens, could this mean they are safer.
Any thoughts Please?

Title: Re: Bracken v ferns
Post by: Dogwalker on October 20, 2017, 06:21:49 am

Mine have eaten both with no ill effect.  Not in huge quantity and there's only one patch of bracken in one hay field hedge so they only get to it once or twice a year.  Ferns they go for whenever they see them but again not regularly.

Title: Re: Bracken v ferns
Post by: Penninehillbilly on October 25, 2017, 11:09:15 am

Thanks