Keeping Geese: Natural, Eco-Friendly Grass Control

These days, more people are turning to geese as a natural and sustainable solution for grass control in large gardens or smallholdings. Geese are economical to keep, robust creatures with a diet mainly consisting of grass, which keeps feeding costs low. Unlike other poultry, they are less prone to common illnesses if properly cared for, and they rarely suffer from blood-sucking parasites like red mites. Routine worming is generally sufficient to keep them healthy.

Another benefit of keeping geese is their simple housing needs. They are happy in a well-ventilated shed with sufficient space but do not require expensive housing with numerous perches or nesting boxes. Importantly, unlike ducks, geese do not damage the grass by turning it into mud during wet weather. Their droppings are primarily grass-based, meaning they are less odorous and easy to wash away, resulting in a cleaner garden environment.

1. Geese Keep Grass Nicely Trimmed

Geese naturally graze the grass short, significantly reducing the need for mowing. This is a huge advantage for anyone managing large areas such as orchards or meadows, saving both time and effort. However, they require ample space to roam — ideally at least half an acre — to ensure they are not confined unfairly. Small garden plots typically won't provide the space needed for geese to thrive healthily, even with supplemental feed such as grain or pellets.

2. Geese Tend to Stay Close to Home

Unlike many other poultry, geese generally stay near their home territory, making management easier. However, the grazing land must be rested regularly to allow grass to recover. The best practice is to have at least two separate grazing areas which can be rotated, moving the flock approximately every month. This rotation prevents overgrazing or "poaching" of the soil, protecting it from damage and reducing the risk of worm infestations among the birds.

Electric fencing is an effective way to contain geese and protect them from predators such as foxes, but this fencing requires regular maintenance to ensure it remains operational.

3. Natural Fertilisation of Land

Geese droppings contribute valuable nutrients, acting as a natural fertiliser to enrich the soil. When managed with proper land rotation and good grazing habits, the pastures remain lush and green. Rain helps wash nutrients into the soil, enhancing fertility further without needing synthetic fertilisers. This creates a sustainable and environmentally friendly system that benefits both the land and the geese.

4. Housing and Environmental Needs

Geese require a simple but secure shed for shelter, with good ventilation and protection from bad weather. Since domestic geese only spend a small portion of their time in water—around 10%—a large tub filled with clean water is sufficient for drinking and bathing. For those interested in breeding, especially with heavier breeds like the Toulouse or African Goose, a small pond is recommended, as geese prefer to mate on water.

5. Important Considerations Before Keeping Geese

• Noise: Male geese (ganders) can be quite noisy, especially during breeding season. For example, Chinese Geese are particularly vocal, which could be an issue in residential areas.
• Long-term commitment: Geese can live up to 20 years, so they require a long-term care plan and commitment.
• Geese and children: Geese can be defensive and may chase noisy or boisterous children, so supervision is important to prevent frightening encounters.
• Quality grazing land: Geese need sweet, fresh grass and clovers with adequate protein levels. It's advisable to mow or let livestock like sheep or cattle graze the land before introducing geese to improve grazing quality.
• Safety: Secure fencing is essential to protect geese from predators. Electric fences are recommended but must be regularly tested and maintained.
• Water supply: Fresh water must be provided daily and changed regularly to maintain the health of your geese.

6. How to Maintain Your Geese and Pasture

Good management includes rotating grazing areas to avoid overuse, regular health checks, and consistent worming schedules recommended by your local reputable geese breeders. Maintaining clean water and providing shelter contribute to healthy, happy birds that will efficiently support your natural grass control efforts.

7. Benefits Summary

• Cost-effective, as geese primarily eat grass and require minimal extra feed
• Natural lawn mowers and weeders who reduce manual labour and chemical use
• Stay close to their home area, simplifying management and fencing requirements
• Provide natural fertilisation that enhances soil health and plant growth
• Do not damage the ground as ducks sometimes do, even in wet weather

Keeping geese offers a sustainable, practical, and enjoyable way to manage your garden or orchard grass. By combining effective grazing, natural fertilisation, and minimal maintenance, geese stand out as one of the best options for natural grass control in the UK.

For those interested in keeping geese, always ensure you adopt from reputable breeders who prioritise the welfare and health of their flocks. This promotes responsible ownership and supports ethical breeding practices.