What comes to mind when you think of a thriving, low-maintenance garden? Things like: Rich, dark compost. Raised beds overflowing with herbs and veggies. A neat little rainwater harvesting system and pollinator-friendly blooms. 

If ducks weren’t on that list, @Huw Richards from Huw’s Nursery has a few compelling reasons why you need to go back and add them.

These waddling, feathered garden companions are so much more than cute faces with funny walks. Ducks can play a surprisingly powerful role in creating a lush, balanced garden—especially if you’re looking for a natural, chemical-free way to manage pests, fertilize your soil, and maybe even collect a few eggs along the way.

Here’s why ducks might just be the garden buddies you never knew you needed.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.

1. Slugs, Be Gone

You know that sinking feeling you get when you check your lettuce in the morning,  and what is left of your spinach is a lacy depressing situation? That’s why you need ducks, they are absolute slug assassins. They’ll patrol your garden like it’s their personal buffet, gobbling up slugs, snails, and other pesky crawlies that dare to touch your kale.

Unlike chickens, ducks don’t scratch at your garden beds, so your plants get pest protection without the risk of being uprooted.

2. Way Easier to Herd Than Chickens

We have nothing against the little cluckers, but have you ever tried herding chickens? It’s like trying to organize a group chat with toddlers. Ducks, on the other hand, stick together naturally.

If you move one, the rest will follow. This makes them way easier to manage if you want to rotate them around your garden or gently guide them to their next snack zone. Getting your ducks in a row is actually quite easy.

3. Natural Fertilizer on Webbed Feet

Ducks leave behind little nutrient-rich “gifts” as they go about their business. Their poop is high in nitrogen and makes a fantastic fertilizer. As long as it’s aged a bit (fresh duck poop is potent), it can help boost your soil health and support lush plant growth.

You can let it compost before applying it directly to beds—or let the ducks roam in areas that are fallow or between plantings.

4. They’re Gentle Gardeners

Many other birds will dig, scratch, and throw mulch in a way that won’t align with your gardening goals, but ducks are surprisingly gentle with established plants. They’ll nibble here and there, but if your plants are mature enough, they’ll mostly ignore them in favor of bugs and weeds.

Still, young seedlings might need a bit of protection. You may need to redirect the ducks sometimes, but their hearts are in the right place.

5. Bonus Eggs

Depending on the breed, ducks can be excellent egg layers. Some lay more consistently than chickens. Duck eggs are rich, creamy, and higher in fat and protein—perfect for baking or a decadent brunch.

Things to Consider Before Getting Ducks

Image Credit: Deposit Photos.

Water and Housing

Ducks need clean water to wash their bills and bathe. A kiddie pool or small pond works fine—just be ready to change it regularly. Like any animal, they need shelter from predators and a dry place to sleep.

Ducks are Messy

Ducks are not tidy. They’ll splash, poop, and make mud. It’s charming until it’s not. Planning ahead with good drainage helps!

Final Quack—Er, Thoughts

Adding ducks to your garden isn’t just for pest control. You will be creating a vibrant, living ecosystem that works for you. Ducks are low-drama, high-reward companions that bring life, laughter, and slug-free salad greens to your space.

If you’ve got the room and the heart for a few feathery friends, it might be time to let ducks waddle into your garden.

Read more

How To Get Rid Of Slugs And Snails In The Garden

8 Things You Need To Know Before Getting Chickens