Layer feed for laying hens
Oregon State University Extension says layer feeds contain about 16% protein and 3 to 4% calcium. Start layer feed at about 18 to 20 weeks, or when the first egg is laid, whichever comes first.
What the extension service says
Oregon State University Extension says layer feeds "contain about 16% protein and extra calcium (3–4%)." It says to start layer feed "at about 18–20 weeks of age or when the first egg is laid, whichever occurs first," and to feed newly hatched chicks a starter diet until they are about six weeks old.
You can also give laying hens ground oyster shell. Put it in "a separate feeder to allow for free-choice feeding." The same guide says medications "are typically absent in grower or layer diets."
How we list feed: protein and calcium come from the seller's listing. Few Tractor Supply listings show calcium, so most rows say "Not listed" rather than a guess. Check the guaranteed analysis on the bag. Feed prices change often and vary by store, so most rows send you to the store for the current price.
Source: Oregon State University Extension, How to Feed Your Laying Hens (PNW 477). Need a feeder? See feeders.
14 of 14 layer feed match
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DuMOR Organic 16% Egg Layer Crumbles
- Form
- Crumbles
- Protein
- 16%
- Bag sizes
- 10 lb, 40 lb
Healthy Harvest 17% Non-GMO Layer Crumbles
- Form
- Crumbles
- Protein
- 17%
- Bag sizes
- 10 lb, 20 lb
Mile Four Layer Organic Chicken Feed
- Form
- Pellets
- Protein
- 16%
- Bag sizes
- 2 lb, 23 lb, 46 lb
Nature's Best Organic Egg Layer Crumbles
- Form
- Crumbles
- Protein
- Not listed
- Bag sizes
- 10 lb, 40 lb
Nutrena NatureWise 17% Protein Layer Crumbles
- Form
- Crumbles
- Protein
- 17%
- Bag sizes
- 50 lb
Nutrena NatureWise 17% Protein Layer Pellets
- Form
- Pellets
- Protein
- 17%
- Bag sizes
- 50 lb
Purina Layena Plus High Protein Layer Pellets
- Form
- Pellets
- Protein
- 19%
- Bag sizes
- 10 lb, 40 lb
Purina Layena Plus Omega-3 Layer Pellets
- Form
- Pellets
- Protein
- 16%
- Bag sizes
- 10 lb, 40 lb
Questions people ask
How much protein should layer feed have?
Oregon State University Extension says layer feeds contain about 16% protein and extra calcium, about 3 to 4%. Most feeds we list are 16% or 17%. (Oregon State University Extension)
When should hens switch to layer feed?
Oregon State University Extension says to start layer feed at about 18 to 20 weeks of age, or when the first egg is laid, whichever comes first. (Oregon State University Extension)
Do laying hens need oyster shell?
Oregon State University Extension says you may give laying hens ground oyster shell, in a separate feeder so they can take it free choice. (Oregon State University Extension)
Is layer feed medicated?
Oregon State University Extension says medications are typically absent in grower or layer diets. None of the layer feed listings we checked say medicated. Read the bag label to be sure. (Oregon State University Extension)
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