Chicken Growing Guide
Discover everything you need to create a thriving chicken flock. From building the perfect coop to understanding chicken behavior, our resources empower you to provide the best care for your feathered friends.
Basics of Raising Chickens
Raising chickens is not only a source of fresh eggs and meat but also an exciting hobby. Learn what conditions are needed, how to choose the right breed, and how to set up a chicken coop.

The health and productivity of chickens largely depend on their diet. In this section, learn what to feed chickens at different ages, what vitamins and minerals they need, and which foods to avoid.
Feeding Program
Essential Nutrients for a Balanced Chicken Diet
A proper feeding program ensures that chickens remain healthy, grow efficiently, and maintain high egg production. A well-balanced diet consists of six essential components:
  • Proteins: Crucial for muscle development, feather growth, and egg production.
  • Carbohydrates: Provide energy and help maintain body temperature.
  • Fats: Aid in energy storage, egg yolk formation, and vitamin absorption.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Necessary for overall health, strong eggshells, and immunity.
  • Fiber: Helps with digestion and gut health.
  • Water: The most important nutrient; clean, fresh water should always be available.
Feeding the right combination of these nutrients ensures that chickens stay strong, productive, and disease-resistant.
Types of Chicken Feed and Their Uses
  • Starter Feed: High-protein feed (18-20%) for chicks up to 6 weeks old.
  • Grower Feed: Slightly lower protein (16-18%) for growing chickens from 7-18 weeks.
  • Layer Feed: Balanced feed (16-18% protein) with added calcium for egg-laying hens.
  • Broiler Feed: High-energy, high-protein feed (20-24%) for meat chickens.
  • Scratch Grain: A mix of grains (corn, wheat, barley) used as a treat, not a complete diet.
  • Medicated vs. Non-Medicated Feed: Medicated feed helps prevent diseases like coccidiosis in young chicks.
Choosing the right type of feed ensures that your chickens receive the necessary nutrients for their specific stage of development.
Feeding Schedule and Best Practices
  • Free-Feeding: Allow chickens to eat as much as they need throughout the day, especially for layers.
  • Portioned Feeding: For broilers, feed in controlled portions to prevent excessive weight gain.
  • Fresh Water: Ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
  • Calcium and Grit: Provide crushed oyster shells or eggshells for layers and grit to aid digestion.
  • Avoid Spoiled Food: Never feed moldy or rotten food, as it can make chickens sick.
  • Treats in Moderation: Offer fruits, vegetables, and grains as treats but ensure they don’t exceed 10% of the diet.
Following these feeding schedules and best practices will keep your flock healthy, productive, and active.
Complete Guide to Chicken Breeding and Incubation: From Egg to Chick
  • Understanding Natural and Artificial Incubation
    Breeding chickens can be done naturally with a broody hen or artificially using an incubator. A broody hen is a natural and reliable way to hatch eggs, as she provides warmth, turns the eggs, and cares for the chicks after they hatch. However, not all breeds go broody, making artificial incubation a popular alternative.
  • How to Select the Best Eggs for Incubation
    Not all eggs are suitable for incubation, and choosing the right ones is crucial for a successful hatch. Select eggs that are clean, medium-sized, and have a strong shell. Avoid eggs that are too large, too small, cracked, or dirty, as they are less likely to develop properly.
  • Managing Temperature, Humidity, and Egg Turning
    Proper incubation conditions are essential for the embryos to develop. The ideal temperature for most incubators is 99.5°F (37.5°C) with a humidity level of 50-55% during the first 18 days. During the final three days before hatching, humidity should be increased to 65-75% to help chicks break through the shell.
  • Hatching and Caring for Newly Hatched Chicks
    As hatching day approaches, you may notice small cracks or hear chirping from inside the eggs. This is known as "pipping," the first step in hatching. Chicks may take up to 24 hours to fully emerge from their shells after the initial pip, so patience is key. Avoid assisting unless absolutely necessary, as interfering can harm the chick.
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  • What is the best diet for chickens?
    Chickens need a balanced diet that includes grains, protein sources (such as soybean meal or insects), vitamins, and minerals. A commercial poultry feed is the easiest way to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients. Additionally, fresh vegetables, fruits, and calcium supplements (like crushed eggshells or oyster shells) can improve their health and egg production.
  • How can I increase egg production in my hens?

    To maximize egg production, ensure your hens have a high-protein diet, access to fresh water at all times, and at least 14 hours of light per day. Keeping the coop clean, stress-free, and well-ventilated also helps. Additionally, providing a comfortable nesting area and choosing high-laying breeds like Leghorns or Rhode Island Reds can improve results.
  • How do I keep my chickens healthy and prevent diseases?

    Keeping chickens healthy requires regular cleaning of the coop, proper ventilation, and access to clean water. A nutritious diet and regular health checks can help prevent diseases. Vaccinations, parasite control, and isolation of sick birds are also essential measures to protect your flock from infections.
  • What are the most beginner-friendly chicken breeds?
    Some of the best beginner-friendly chicken breeds include Rhode Island Reds, Sussex, Orpingtons, and Plymouth Rocks. These breeds are hardy, friendly, and good egg layers, making them ideal for first-time chicken keepers. They adapt well to different climates and are generally easy to care for.