Got chickens that will be laying eggs soon? If you have chicks that hatched last April, there’s a good chance September is the month they’ll be starting to lay eggs. Which means that you need to be switching to layer feeds for your chickens soon.

For backyard chickens, 18 is the magical number where they pass the threshold of adulthood. At 18 weeks of age, most chicken breeds are now ready to start laying eggs, which is why you need to start feeding them with the essential nutrients they need so they can lay farm-fresh eggs. 

Switching to Layer Feeds

Layer feeds are great for laying hens as they contain a high level of calcium, as well as vitamins and minerals. Since laying hens need a lot of these nutrients so they could produce an egg each day, it is important to transition to layer feeds at the right time—at around 18 weeks of age. 

But it’s not just about transitioning at the right time. It’s also about following the correct procedures when making the transition. Need help in this area? Check out the steps we have outlined below.

Step 1: Choose the right chicken layer feed

Not all layer feeds are made equal, so before picking out a particular brand of feed, make sure to check whether the feed you’re choosing matches your goals. Ideally, you should already have made your choice before week 18 so that you won’t be scrambling to make the transition at that time. 

If this is your first time deciding on the best layer feed for your hens, we suggest that you look for a complete layer feed such as Kalmbach layer feeds, which would provide your flock with all the nutrients they need. Check the feed’s protein and calcium levels, as well as the level of vitamins and minerals. 

Some key ingredients to look for are Omega-3 fatty acids, lysine, and methionine. Marigold extract is also a great ingredient as this would help your hens produce eggs with rich, yellow yolks.

Step 2: Begin with the transition

This step usually takes over a week to complete. Note that the transition should be gradual. Otherwise, your chickens may have digestive problems due to the sudden dietary change. 

To begin the transition, mix the layer feed of your choice with your chickens’ regular starter-grower feed. Do this for four to five days. It would also be helpful if you choose a feed with a texture similar to what your chickens are used to. For example, if your chickens are used to crumbles, then you can start the transition with a crumble layer feed as well.

Most chickens can fully adjust to the dietary changes within just a week, although some may need a couple of weeks more to make the full transition. Either way, it is important that you give your flock ample time to adjust to their new diet.

Step 3: Follow a routine

When it comes to feeding your chickens, it is important to remember that consistency is key. Have your chickens follow a routine. For example, you can feed your chickens with the layer feed of your choice in the morning and then switch out the feed by evening time. 

If your chickens are free-range, just see to it that 90% of their daily diet is made up of feeds. This will ensure that your chickens get the essential nutrients they need.

Need quality layer feeds?

Drop by Martin’s Feed Mill today and grab a bag of Kalmbach layer feeds! 

Kalmbach layer feeds contain the proper blend of prebiotics and probiotics as well as digestive enzymes to keep your flock’s gut health at an optimum level. It also contains an all-natural botanical blend that promotes vibrant egg yolks.

Plus, your chickens will love it!  If you really want to spoil your feathered friends, try a premium layer feed, like Henhouse Reserve!  In fact, the numbers show that chickens prefer Henhouse Reserve® 3:1 over ordinary feed.

Get your Kalmbach layer feeds today! Throughout the month of September 2021, shop at Martin’s Feed Mill and get $1 off Kalmbach Layer Crumbles and Pellets all month long!

Also, for every in-store purchase of Kalmbach Layer Feeds, customers get 1 limited edition Kalmbach egg carton. While supplies last!