Layer Feed vs. Homemade Mix?

[mylilchix]

My 11-13 week olds have been on Start & Grow since day one, and we're quickly approaching the time to put them on a layer feed. Should I stick with a layer feed or can I mix my own feed for them? Then what kind of a mix do you use?

Thanks, Sonja

 

[beakkeeper]

Depending on your area, it might be easiest to just by feedstore brands and supplement with free range and/or kitchen trimmings. If you live in a rural area, it might be nice to grow your own grains, etc. for homemade feed. It's really a personal preference... Hope your girls are successful layers!

 

[keljonma]

You could search here on BYC and find many discussions about possible home made or home grown feeds for your flock. Here is another place to look...

http://www.lionsgrip.com/chickens.html

 

[Xtina]

I did a basic search for the term "homemade feed" and this was the only thread I found. Does anyone know off the top of their head where some other threads are?

 

[BaronRenfrew]

Yep: here's three that I won't repeat

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=89348

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=37984

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=52940&p=2

You can mix our own, it can be cheaper depending on quantities.

add ground flax to your feed and have your own omega-3 eggs

It's a question of how many birds, your storage space, and how much work you want to do.

 

[Xtina]

Thanks!

 

[Tailfeathers]

I start my birds out on Medicated Chick Starter. After six to eight weeks on Starter, I put my, I guess you could say Toddler’s, on Starter/Grower. They stay on Starter/Grower for the next 10-12 weeks. Once the Toddler’s get feathered in good, I begin mixing up a batch of “All Purpose Grower” for them. This consists of a mix of Flock Raiser, Game Bird Flight Conditioner, VigorGrow, Cat Food, Scratch, Rolled Oats, DE, Acidophilus, Powdered Milk, Rooster Booster, and maybe something else too. I can’t remember, that’s why I’ve got it written down somewhere. Once they get close to laying I add Layer Pellets to that mix. There’s actually a formula all worked out, believe it or not.

I do this because we show our poultry and I believe it gives them healthier plumage plus they get all the other stuff they need (i.e. protein, calcium, etc.) in the right percentages to keep them laying well.

 

[mylilchix]

Tailfeathers, do you have an exact recipe for that? That sounds like one I could easily put together.
Thanks,
Sonja