What do I need to feed my hens?

[PurpleChicken1]

My hens just started laying and i am not sure what to feed them? Are there any special requirements? They have grit,layered mash and mixed corn sometimes. Shall I stop feeding them Poultry Grower feed?

 

[Mountain Peeps]

If you are feeding them a layer feed, then stop on the grower. Layer feed is an option. I think it's better since it is specifically designed for hens.

The corn and grit are good. You also must provided them with extra calcium. You can also give them some table scraps. Just remember that corn and table scraps should only take up 10% of their daily diet.

 

[PurpleChicken1]

How can i give them the extra calcium?

 

[PurpleChicken1]

Also one of my hens haven't started to lay yet. Shall i continue to put Poultry Grower in the feed?

 

[Mountain Peeps]

How can i give them the extra calcium?

Either oyster shell or eggshells. (See link attached.) Provide it in a separate dish.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/eggshells-for-laying-hens

Also one of my hens haven't started to lay yet. Shall i continue to put Poultry Grower in the feed?

If she is over 18 weeks, feed her to layer.

 

[PurpleChicken1]

Thank you! I do have some oyster shell is that safe to feed the hens who is not laying? (It is mixed with the grit)

 

[Percheron chick]

No reason to not finish the bag of grower. Mix it 50/50 with the layer and get rid of it. Any additional Ca they might possibly need they can get from the oyster shells or save yourself that $$ and just feed back the egg shells.

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Thank you! I do have some oyster shell is that safe to feed the hens who is not laying? (It is mixed with the grit)

Yes, it's safe.

 

[aart]

The oyster shell should be separate from the grit IMO; roosters, chicks and pullets who are not laying yet don't need the calcium.

I feed a 20% raiser crumble to everyone and offer shell in a separate container for the layers.
The higher protein crumble balances out any other things you might feed, like scratch and kitchen scraps.

 

[PurpleChicken1]

Thanks