I specialize in the Marans... and never feed anything less than 20% protein.. 22% was shown to give the best hatch rates.My pullets are EE RIR & Leghorn. I also have some black and lavender Maran chicks.
Purina flock raiser... sold at TSC... with oyster shell available free choice on the side is nice happy medium for ALL my birds... from start to finish.
20-25% protein feed would be my aim... for your stated goals, with the understanding I currently have.
I truly believe protein makes the difference.
Good luck, it's a worthy goal.
