Spring Begins

As the chill of winter fades and the first green shoots break through the soil, life on the farm stirs with renewed energy. The days grow longer, the sun shines warmer, and the animals sense the shift—spring has arrived. For those of us managing a suburban farm, this season isn’t just a welcome change in weather; it’s the cue to shift gears, embracing the work and rewards that come with the growing season.

The Flock Feels the Change

Our chickens and turkeys are among the first to notice the arrival of spring. With more daylight hours, egg production picks up, and the coop becomes a hub of activity. The hens, who may have slowed down during the winter months, now seem eager to lay. If you keep a rooster, you’ll notice an uptick in his vigilance—spring brings new broody hens and the possibility of chicks!

With the thaw, it’s also time for coop cleaning. The deep bedding that provided warmth in the colder months needs to be replaced, and fresh straw or wood shavings help keep the flock dry and comfortable. With more time spent foraging, our birds will enjoy the first bugs of the season, adding natural protein to their diet.

The Goat Gets Restless

If you have a goat, you’ve probably already noticed the change in their mood. With fresh green grass sprouting, your goat is ready to explore and graze more. Goats are naturally playful, and the warmer air makes them extra energetic. It’s a great time to reinforce fencing (because we all know a determined goat will find a way out) and check their hooves, as the damp ground can lead to soft spots and potential hoof issues.

Spring is also kidding season for many goats, so if you’re expecting new arrivals, now’s the time to prepare! Whether you’re bottle-feeding or letting mom handle it, ensuring a safe, dry place for newborns is a must.

The Hog’s Spring Feast

Our hog loves springtime—after months of a steady winter diet, she now has access to fresh greens, fallen fruit, and the occasional treat from the kitchen. Hogs are natural foragers, and springtime means rooting through soft earth, finding grubs, and happily wallowing in fresh mud.

Spring is also the best time to assess feed levels and adjust accordingly. Warmer temperatures mean a shift from high-calorie winter feed to a diet that takes advantage of the season’s fresh forage. If you’re raising pigs for meat, spring is when you start planning ahead for their summer growth.

Farm Chores: Gearing Up for Growth

With spring’s arrival, farm work kicks into high gear. Here are a few key tasks to tackle:

• Fencing & Shelter Repairs: Winter can be hard on structures. Walk the perimeter, check for weak spots in fencing, and patch up any damage.

• Garden Prep: If you grow your own food, now’s the time to start seeds, amend the soil, and prepare for planting. Fresh greens and herbs will benefit both you and your animals.

• Parasite Prevention: Warmer weather means a rise in pests like mites, ticks, and worms. A proactive approach—such as dust baths for chickens and deworming for goats—helps keep animals healthy.

• Water Check: As temperatures rise, animals will need more water. Make sure waterers are clean and functioning properly.

Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and hard work, but for those of us with a love for farm life, there’s nothing quite like watching our animals thrive in the sunshine and fresh air. So, as the season unfolds, let’s roll up our sleeves and embrace the shift—because on a suburban farm, spring waits for no one!