What is the best layer food for my hens?

[Wyandotte Momma]

I am switching my hens from scratch to a layer feed here in the next few weeks. I was just curious as to what type of feed for them?

 

[rainbowrooster]

Scratch does not contain the nutritional value of feed. It is good that you are switching. Use scratch like treats. Find a feed that is formulated for laying hens.

 

[matt44644]

How old are they? Are you asking which brand to buy?

 

[eggmaster6]

I recently switched my flock to layer feed too. I use Payback feed. Its cheap and they like it and the production of eggs has gone up. Not sure if it has hormones or not the ingredient label doesn't say, I hope it doesn't but it seems to be working.

 

[matt44644]

No hormones are permitted in any poultry.

 

[Wyandotte Momma]

@matt4464 they are about 32 weeks and yes i was just curious what brand(s) are good. And thank you @eggmaster6 if they like it and it's cheap that's great! Thanks all!

 

[matt44644]

@matt4464 they are about 32 weeks and yes i was just curious what brand(s) are good. And thank you @eggmaster6 if they like it and it's cheap that's great! Thanks all!

You'll have to see which brands are readily available in your area,then go from there. I've been having good luck with Nutrena .

 

[hannah8]

I use 18% layer ratio and i get 20-22 eggs everyday from 23 hens that are over a year old

 

[aart]

I like to feed a 'flock raiser' 20% protein crumble to all ages and genders, as non-layers(chicks, males and all molting birds) do not need the extra calcium that is in layer feed and chicks and molters can use the extra protein. Makes life much simpler to store and distribute one type of chow that everyone can eat.

Calcium should be available at all times for the layers, oyster shell mixed with rinsed, dried, crushed chicken egg shells in a separate container.

The higher protein crumble offsets the 8% protein scratch grains and other kitchen/garden scraps I like to offer.