Just to add to all the good advice... I buy locally grown organic feed for chicks (chick starter/grower which is higher in protein) and chicken layer feed. I think that 50lbs will last about 2 mos or so according to how messy they are
Air-tight storage is essential since as the grain farmer explained to me - the minute you break the grain and bag it, the nutrients start to dissipate.
I don't use scratch since mine have plently of free -ranging dirt and such.
I do use DE all over the place... especially in the nest boxes and on the roost. I sprinkle around everywhere. I also buy a big bag and I store it in the shed on a shelf so it doesn't get wet. Kelp is another great nutrient. You don't need oyster shells until they are ready to lay eggs.
All the best with the little ones.
I don't use scratch since mine have plently of free -ranging dirt and such.
I do use DE all over the place... especially in the nest boxes and on the roost. I sprinkle around everywhere. I also buy a big bag and I store it in the shed on a shelf so it doesn't get wet. Kelp is another great nutrient. You don't need oyster shells until they are ready to lay eggs.
All the best with the little ones.
