Winter time laying can be tricky depending on where you live. We are in North Central Texas n get a lot of sunshine BUT in the winter time I have solar lights to give my hens extra daytime even though they do free range. I bought the "helios" led string lights that are very bright n hung them...
Depends on the BREED. My Chinese Langshams n Jersey Giants took a whole year. USUALLY 4-6 months on regular size breeds. The first month or two the eggs are smaller than when the birds are more mature n will be more consistent laying. I think the silver wyndottes have been our best overall...