5 Things To Feed Your Chickens So They Lay Eggs All Year

Introduction

Feeding your chickens the right nutrition is crucial for encouraging egg production throughout the year. This guide will outline five essential foods that can help ensure your hens lay eggs consistently. By providing a balanced diet, you can enhance your flock's health and productivity.

Step 1: High-Quality Layer Feed

• Start with a commercial layer feed that is specially formulated for laying hens.
• Ensure the feed contains at least 16% protein, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
• Provide fresh feed daily to keep your chickens healthy and encourage egg production.

Step 2: Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

• Supplement your chickens' diet with fresh produce to provide additional nutrients.
• Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables such as:
  • Leafy greens (kale, spinach)
  • Carrots
  • Berries
  • Melons
• Chop the produce into manageable pieces to make it easier for your chickens to eat.

Step 3: Protein Sources

• Add protein-rich foods to support egg production.
• Consider options like:
  • Mealworms
  • Scraps from meat and fish (ensure they are cooked)
  • Kitchen scraps such as legumes or grains
• Limit the amount of protein to avoid overfeeding, as too much can lead to health issues.

Step 4: Grit and Calcium Supplements

• Provide grit to help chickens digest their feed effectively.
• Offer calcium supplements, especially crushed oyster shells, to strengthen eggshells.
• Ensure your hens have continuous access to grit and calcium.

Step 5: Clean Water

• Always provide fresh, clean water to keep chickens hydrated.
• Change the water daily to prevent contamination.
• Consider adding electrolytes during hot weather or periods of stress to keep your chickens healthy.

Conclusion

To maintain a steady egg production throughout the year, focus on a balanced diet that includes high-quality layer feed, fresh fruits and vegetables, protein sources, grit and calcium supplements, and clean water. By following these steps, you'll help your chickens thrive and maximize their egg-laying potential. For more comprehensive insights, consider checking out additional resources on chicken care.