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Hen Scratch (mixed grains) is usually only 9% protein, so that might not be a good thing to feed during feather growth or laying times. I don't have the time to mix feed, so I buy locally prepared food that is called: "Natural 20 laying pellets". It is 20% protein and works well with my chickens and waterfowl. It contains no preservatives, chemicals or anything else that is not natural. Most feed companies make something like this. Almost all of the people I know mix their own though.
I find that mixed grain works very well during the winter after laying and feather production...and it's cheap. Mixed grains help make hard feathers and this is good in Orientals and Games, but not so good for most Heritage breeds. I have also found that mixed grains CAN cause white in tail feathers and wing feathers, particularly if these feathers are black.
I always qualify my statements by saying " this is what I do and it works with my birds here at this location". I say this because some of the things I do don't work for other people. What works for some breeds/strains may not necessarily work for others. My birds are totally chemical free. No after market vitamins, medicines, injections etc etc. My birds pretty much die of old age, occasional predators or once when a car hit one of one. I have ducks here that are 20 years old. Chickens last from one day to 12-15 years. The ones at one day are the ones I cull. I also don't let many people on the property, but I do show my birds and they are exposed at that time. they just don't get anything. It did not start out that way though....you have to be strong to live here or you meet Mr. Axe.
I would suggest everyone use Chris's info, it is very complete, I just don't have the time.
Walt Leonard
