Pigs in the Garden

Pigs can act as natural tillers and nutrient cyclers. Their rooting breaks up compacted soil, incorporates organic matter, and helps clear weed roots. When moved on after working an area, their manure and disturbance can improve soil structure and fertility — reducing the need for machinery or chemicals.

🐷Smaller heritage breeds like Kune Kune (coonies) are often better suited for gardens. They're easier to handle and like many commercial breeds, the big pink pig, has evolved with pellet and cages and therefore harder to keep happy in a "wildish" environment. Two pigs are recommended for companionship, and careful breed selection helps ensure they fit your space and goals. There’s no true “mini” pig in Aotearoa NZ, however there may be some where you live. I recommend asking to see the parents to estimate adult weight.

For a home gardener I do NOT recommend pig manure in the garden processes. Esp annual edibles. Choose ruminant manure. Pigs are omnivores and can carry bacteria like E. coli or parasites. They are best used to clear land for fruit trees or non edibles. However, if you're super excited about it listen to the episode and Sez the Vet talks through ways around these things.

DIY nose‑ringing is illegal – you cannot insert a nose ring yourself. You cannot use nose ringing just to protect your paddock or garden, this is also illegal. Instead listen to the episode to get some ideas on how to use their snouts to your advantage. Happy pig, happy gardener 🌿💚