How to Feed Chickens Without The Feed Store (Growing Grains and Hunting)

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to feed chickens without relying on commercial feed stores. By growing your own grains and understanding chicken nutrition, you can ensure your flock is healthy and productive while potentially saving money. This guide will cover essential topics such as how much feed chickens need, cost considerations, nutritional needs, and practical steps for growing your own chicken feed.

Step 1: Understand Chicken Nutritional Needs

• Daily Feed Requirement: Each chicken typically needs about 1/4 to 1/3 of a pound of feed daily.
• Key Nutrients:
  • Carbohydrates and Crude Fiber: Important for energy and digestion.
  • Fatty Acids: Essential for overall health and energy.
  • Protein: Crucial for growth, egg production, and muscle development.
  • Minerals: Necessary for bone health and metabolic functions.
  • Vitamins: Important for immune function and overall well-being.

Step 2: Calculate Feed Costs

• Annual Cost from Feed Store: Feeding 10 chickens can cost approximately $500 per year, depending on local feed prices.
• Egg Production: Each hen can lay about 250 eggs per year, which translates to a significant return on your feed investment.

Step 3: Explore Alternatives to Commercial Feed

• Fermenting Feed: This can improve nutrient absorption and reduce feed costs. To ferment:

  • Soak feed in water for 24-48 hours.
  • Use a container that allows for air circulation.
  • Feed the fermented mix to chickens, observing their response.

• Free Ranging: Allowing chickens to forage can supplement their diet, but be mindful of potential limitations in nutrients.

Step 4: Grow Your Own Chicken Feed

• Feed Types to Grow:
  • Corn: High in energy; easy to grow.
  • Wheat: Good source of carbohydrates.
  • Peas: High in protein; beneficial for growth.
  • Oats: Great for energy and fiber.
  • Fish Meal/Bone Meal: Provides essential proteins and minerals.
  • Fresh Greens: Offers vitamins and minerals; can be grown in small spaces.

Step 5: Space Requirements for Growing Feed

• Land Requirements: Allocate enough space for each type of grain. For instance, a small garden plot can produce sufficient grains for a small flock.
• Considerations: Assess your available land and choose crops that thrive in your climate.

Step 6: Calculate Costs to Grow Your Own Feed

• Seed Costs: Determine the cost of seeds for the grains you wish to grow.
• Total Cost Analysis: Compare the cost of growing your own feed against purchasing it from stores. You may find significant savings.

Step 7: Seed Saving Techniques

• Harvesting Seeds: Learn how to collect and store seeds from your crops to reduce future growing costs.
• Best Practices:
  • Allow crops to fully mature before harvesting seeds.
  • Store seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain viability.

Conclusion

Feeding chickens without relying on feed stores is achievable through careful planning and sustainable practices. By understanding chicken nutrition, calculating costs, and growing your own feed, you can create a healthier environment for your flock and potentially save money. Consider starting with a small garden to grow essential grains and gradually expand as you become more comfortable with the process. Happy farming!