First Run of Cornish Cross Meat Birds and Super Excited!

[GreatBreeder]

So I will be keeping an Orpington and Cochin for eggs in an 8' x 8' coop and let them range behind the bushes. That tree in the left corner is a loquat, and I think my chickens would love the fallen fruit. I only have 3 people to supply with eggs plus we don't eat them every morning. I think I'm considering putting the coop in front of the brick square area and using some chicken wire to create a path to the back of the bushes. Also these areas have the most bugs which they will love. I am extremely determined to get chickens and it would break my heart to not be able to. With my extra coop space, what 2 chicken breeds should I get next year?

 

[JRNash]

You will starve waiting on eggs.

 

[JRNash]

Get twice the number birds that you want eggs. Then it STILL won't be enough. I've got white Leghorns, that are classified as NON BROODY,that are sitting on eggs

 

[PD-Riverman]

Get twice the number birds that you want eggs. Then it STILL won't be enough. I've got white Leghorns, that are classified as NON BROODY,that are sitting on eggs

How old are your Leghorns that are setting?

 

[Molpet]

So I will be keeping an Orpington and Cochin for eggs in an 8' x 8' coop and let them range behind the bushes. That tree in the left corner is a loquat, and I think my chickens would love the fallen fruit. I only have 3 people to supply with eggs plus we don't eat them every morning. I think I'm considering putting the coop in front of the brick square area and using some chicken wire to create a path to the back of the bushes. Also these areas have the most bugs which they will love. I am extremely determined to get chickens and it would break my heart to not be able to. With my extra coop space, what 2 chicken breeds should I get next year?

I sold my orphingtons because they were the last to start laying and the first to quit ... laid about 3 eggs a week each... but they are a very popular bird
The ISA browns (sexlink) each lay 6 eggs a week all through winter. BUT they only lay like that for a couple of years And they are prone to health problems.

 

[JRNash]

PD, little over a year old

 

[JRNash]

I've got Isa Browns doing the same thing

 

[holm25]

Molpet I am surprised to hear your Orps were like that. My hatchery Orps were the first to start laying for me (21 weeks) and 3 years later still laying like champs. Where did you get yours from?

 

[GreatBreeder]

Three eggs a week is just enough for me

 

[GreatBreeder]

I'm thinking 2 broilers 2 layers at a time, but this year only 1 each. My selection is:
1x White Leghorn
1x Rhode Island Red male x White Rock male
1x Cornish Cross
1x Red Slow Grow Broiler or Mixed Slow Grow Broiler

Questions:
Should I choose mixed or Red Slow Grow Broilers?
Which pair should I choose this year?