Question for the chicken feed experts on here

[djstanczak]

My hens have just started laying and I have them on Naturewise All Flock feed and a big bowl of oyster shell available at all times. If needed I could switch them to layer feed. Would they get something from layer feed they are not getting now? Which is better?

 

[ChickNanny13]

I would keep them on the All Flock with the bowl of oyster shells on the side. I used to switch over to layer but then I'd have different stages of feed. Now I feed Purina Flock Raiser with oyster shells on the side, saves on space & never had a problem with egg shells nor their laying ability. Others may differ in opinion, you could also continue as you are & you next bag switch to layer. Not sure if which is "better", will be following to see what other say. Enjoy your eggs...

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Layer ration will generally contain less protein than an all flock but more calcium. I prefer the all flock. The extra protein helps keep deficiencies at bay, especially if you feed anything extra. I find the extra calcium in layer can sometimes cause extra calcium deposits on eggs, I prefer the hens to self regulate calcium as all hens lay a different rates.

Layer is formulated to be fed as the sole ration to actively laying hens, and for them not to get fat on it. They should be switched off it during the fall molt.

I find it easier and better to feed an All Flock year round.

 

[djstanczak]

I am glad to hear this, the eggs shells look great and so do the birds so I will stay with the all flock

 

[bacon4eggs]

What about an organic all flock is there one

 

[PatrickRoo]

What about an organic all flock is there one

I sure have never seen one. Judging by the price of common organic feeds I see, I'm sure if there was an All Flock feed, it wouldn't be cheap. That stuff is about $22 for a bag, and the bag is generally under 50lbs because it's not as easy to obtain organic ingredients, because they're more expensive than non-organic ingredients. I've never seen a yolk difference between organic and non-organic feed, either.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

What about an organic all flock is there one

An organic grower with 18-20% protein is what you're looking for