Backyard Chicken Feed: Building a Balanced Diet for Backyard Chickens

Whether you're raising a handful of hens or managing a full coop, feeding your chickens properly is the key to their health, productivity, and longevity. A well-balanced diet ensures strong eggshells, vibrant feathers, robust immune systems, and happy birds. But for new and seasoned chicken keepers alike, understanding the essentials of backyard chicken feed can feel overwhelming.

At Paris Farmers Union, we're here to simplify your choices and guide you through seasonal feeding strategies, product recommendations, and nutritional tips for every stage of your flock's life.

The Foundation of Backyard Chicken Feed

Backyard chickens need a complete and balanced diet made up of protein, calcium, vitamins, and minerals. Their diet changes as they grow, which is why different feeds are available for chicks, pullets, and laying hens.

Let's look at the common categories:

1. Chick Starter Feed (0–8 weeks)

• High protein (18–20%) to support rapid growth.
• Typically comes in crumble form for easy consumption.
• Available in medicated (prevents coccidiosis) or non-medicated forms.

2. Grower Feed (8–16 weeks)

• Slightly lower protein (14–16%) as birds grow more slowly.
• No added calcium, since they're not yet laying.

3. Layer Feed (16+ weeks)

• Formulated with 16–18% protein.
• Added calcium to support strong eggshells.
• Includes all vitamins and minerals for healthy laying hens.

The Role of Supplements

Layer feed often covers all the essentials, but there are some situations where extra support is beneficial.

Grit

Chickens don't have teeth, so they need grit (tiny rocks) in their gizzard to grind food. Free-range birds often get it from the ground, but confined flocks need supplemental grit.

Oyster Shell

Layer feed includes calcium, but some hens need more. Offer oyster shells in a separate dish so hens can regulate their intake.

Scratch Grains

These are whole grains (like cracked corn) used as treats. They are low in protein and nutrients and should only make up about 10% of the diet.

Seasonal Feeding Adjustments

Just like humans, chickens experience changes in nutritional needs with the seasons.

Spring

• Time to transition from winter feed to more free-ranging and pasture access.
• Offer feed with high protein to support molting or egg production ramp-up.
• Keep waterers clean—spring mud can cause bacterial growth.

Summer

• Chickens eat less in hot weather. Choose high-fat, energy-rich feed.
• Add electrolytes to water during heatwaves.
• Keep feed dry to prevent mold and insects.

Fall

• Chickens often molt, switch to a higher protein feed (18–20%) to support feather regrowth.
• Reduce treats to avoid unwanted weight gain.

Winter

• Less daylight slows egg production.
• Chickens burn more energy staying warm, offered feed high in calories.
• Limit scratch grains; balance with high-protein feed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Feeding only scratch or treats: Leads to nutritional deficiencies.
2. Using layer feed for chicks: High calcium can harm young kidneys.
3. Ignoring grit or oyster shell: Impacts digestion and eggshell strength.
4. Letting feed get wet: Moldy feed can cause serious illness.
5. Skipping seasonal adjustments: Affects weight, egg quality, and immune response.

Can Chickens Eat Table Scraps?

Yes and no. Chickens enjoy variety, but some human foods are harmful.

Safe Scraps:

• Cooked rice or pasta
• Lettuce, spinach, kale
• Watermelon, berries
• Hard-boiled eggs (chopped)

Avoid:

• Raw potato peels (contain solanine)
• Chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol
• Salty or fatty leftovers
• Moldy bread

Use moderation. Treats should be no more than 10% of their total diet.

Feeding for Purpose: Meat vs. Eggs

Chickens raised for meat (broilers) grow fast and need more calories. Layers, on the other hand, need calcium and consistent nutrition.

For Broilers:

• High protein starter (22–24%)
• Grower ration with moderate energy

For Layers:

• Steady layer feed
• Optional shell or grit

Storage and Feeding Tips

• Use metal or rodent-proof bins to store feed.
• Check feed for moisture or insects before use.
• Clean feeders and waterers weekly.
• Use hanging feeders to reduce waste.

Helpful Tool: Hanging Poultry Feeder Options

Recommended Products at Paris Farmers Union

Explore top-rated backyard chicken feed products:

• Blue Seal Home Fresh Starter Crumble
• Blue Seal Home Fresh Layer Pellet
• Blue Seal Scratch Grain Mix
• Oyster Shell Supplement
• Electrolyte and Vitamin Packets
• Grit for Poultry

Customer Q&A: What Other Chicken Keepers Ask

Q: Can I make my own feed mix?
A: You can, but it's difficult to ensure balanced nutrition. Commercial feeds are professionally formulated.

Q: How much feed per bird per day?
A: An average laying hen eats about ¼ lb (4 oz) of feed per day.

Q: Should I feed at a certain time?
A: Free-choice feeding works best. Refill feeders each morning and remove any spoiled feed.

Q: What do I do during a feed shortage?
A: Supplement with cooked grains, hard-boiled eggs, and greens temporarily. Contact Paris Farmers Union to check stock or substitutes.

Bonus: Coop Enrichment Ideas

Well-fed chickens are happy, but enrichment keeps them active and reduces pecking.

Try:

• Hanging cabbage
• Seed blocks
• Dust baths
• Perches and climbing spots

Feed Is Your Flock's Foundation

The key to a thriving flock is understanding what to feed, when, and why. From tiny chicks to productive layers, each life stage and season demands a different approach. Paris Farmers Union makes it easy to access trusted, nutrient-rich backyard chicken feed that supports your birds every step of the way.

Ready to upgrade your coop's nutrition plan? Explore our full range of backyard chicken feed and supplies here and set your flock up for success year-round.

Need advice? Stop by your nearest location or reach out to our team for help with selecting the best products for your birds!