A Rosie On The House Replay

In this episode Romey Romero from Rosie on the House and Farmer Greg sit down with Ashley McClure and Scott Brown of Phoenix Organic Feed to talk about raising backyard chickens in the summer heat. The conversation explores heat management, predator protection, organic feed, egg production, breed selection, and why chickens are one of the best tools for local food resilience. Ashley and Scott also share the grassroots story behind Phoenix Organic Feed and how a small community feed order turned into a regional network serving thousands of chicken keepers across metro Phoenix and the Verde Valley.

Key Topics

Backyard chickens in desert climates
Organic chicken feed and local food resilience
Heat management for chickens
Predator-proof chicken coops
Egg production and breed selection
Chickens as composters and pest control
Food security through backyard farming
Phoenix Organic Feed community distribution model
Rhode Island Red chickens
Leghorn chickens
Raising meat birds vs. egg layers
Electrolytes and hydration for poultry
Victory Gardens and modern homesteading

Key Questions Answered

Why should people keep chickens in their backyard?

Chickens provide eggs, protein, compost, pest control, entertainment, and a stronger connection to food production. The guests describe chickens as a practical step toward food resilience and self-sufficiency.

Can chickens survive desert heat?

Yes. Chickens can adapt to desert climates when they have shade, cool water, ventilation, electrolyte support, and ways to cool their feet. Breed selection also matters because heavier feathered birds struggle more in extreme heat.

What are the biggest mistakes new chicken keepers make?

Underestimating heat stress, failing to predator-proof coops, and not planning for chick care are major mistakes. Baby chicks require supplemental heat, proper feed, protection, and clean water.

How do chickens help gardens and homesteads?

Chickens convert kitchen scraps, weeds, and insects into manure that improves soil fertility. They also reduce pests like scorpions and ticks while contributing to compost systems.

What breeds are best for egg production?

Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds are highlighted as strong egg producers, capable of laying close to 300 eggs per year under ideal conditions.

Do colorful eggs taste different?

No. The shell color does not change flavor, but presentation matters. Dark brown, blue, and green eggs create visual appeal and help backyard egg sellers stand out.

Why start Phoenix Organic Feed?

Scott Brown started the business after struggling to find affordable organic chicken feed in Phoenix. What began as a one-ton community order through a local permaculture network eventually grew into a distribution network serving over 3,000 subscribers.

What makes backyard eggs different from store-bought eggs?

The guests explain that backyard eggs often have darker orange yolks, fresher flavor, and come from chickens raised on higher quality feed and forage.

Episode Highlights

Chickens help control scorpions, ticks, and garden pests naturally.
Roosters protect hens from predators and help maintain flock harmony.
Chickens cool themselves through their feet, making shallow water trays effective in desert heat.
Frozen water bottles, fans, and swamp coolers can save chickens during extreme Arizona summers.
Egg production drops during stress, overcrowding, and intense heat.
Older hens often become the best foragers and flock teachers.
Chickens naturally roost high off the ground to avoid predators.
Backyard eggs with colorful shells and rich orange yolks can command premium prices.

Resources

Ashley & Scott's Website — Phoenix Organic Feed Website

Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/985 for the show notes and links on this episode!

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985: Chickens, Compost & Food Resilience - A Rosie Replay

The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

985: Chickens, Compost & Food Resilience - A Rosie Replay