To pick the best chicken feed at Tractor Supply, match the feed to your birds’ age and purpose: starter for chicks, grower for young birds, layer feed for hens that are laying, and all-flock feed if you keep mixed ages. Then read the tag for protein, medication and calcium. Here is how to choose.
Step 1: Choose by age and job
- Chick starter (0 to about 8 weeks): about 18 to 20 percent protein, in crumble form. Choose medicated starter only if your chicks are not vaccinated for coccidiosis and your vet or store staff recommend it.
- Grower or developer (about 8 to 18 weeks): lower protein and calcium than layer feed. Feeding layer feed too early can harm young birds’ kidneys.
- Layer feed (from about 18 weeks, or when laying starts): about 16 percent protein with added calcium for strong shells. Provide oyster shell on the side if you like.
- All-flock or flock raiser: a good choice for mixed ages. Offer oyster shell separately for laying hens.
- Meat birds: need a higher-protein broiler feed.
Step 2: Read the feed tag
- Crude protein: the main number to match to the bird’s age.
- Calcium: layer feed usually has about 3.5 to 4 percent. Young birds and roosters should not eat it all the time.
- Medicated or non-medicated: medicated starter contains a coccidiostat such as amprolium. Do not feed medicated chick feed along with other medicines unless a vet advises it.
- Form: crumble for chicks, pellets or crumbles for adults. Mash wastes more.
- Date: buy fresh feed and avoid bags with holes or damp spots.
Step 3: Think about extras
- Organic or non-GMO: costs more. The choice is a matter of preference, and it is not required for healthy hens.
- Soy-free or corn-free: available from some brands if you need them.
- Grit: birds that eat only pellets and have no access to soil usually need a little grit.
- Treats: keep scratch grains and kitchen scraps to no more than about 10 percent of the diet.
Which brands does Tractor Supply carry?
Stock varies by store and region, but Tractor Supply commonly carries its own Producer’s Pride label as well as national brands such as Purina, Nutrena and Manna Pro. Compare protein, price per pound and ingredients rather than the brand alone.
Storing chicken feed
- Keep it in a sealed metal or heavy plastic container to keep out rodents and moisture.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Use it within a month or two, and throw away anything that smells musty or looks moldy.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my hens stop laying after a feed change?
The most common reasons are shorter daylight in fall, molting, stress, age, predators or a drop in protein. Check these before blaming the feed.
Can I feed layer feed to chicks?
No. Chicks need a higher-protein starter and less calcium.
How much feed does a hen eat?
A laying hen typically eats about a quarter pound (4 ounces) of feed per day.
Bottom Line
At Tractor Supply, choose starter for chicks, grower for young birds and layer or all-flock feed for hens. Match the protein to the age, check whether the feed is medicated, store it dry and keep treats small. Call your vet if your flock seems sick.
Related reading: Road Runner Chicken Feed and Naturewise Chicken Feed.
