[Penny Finn]

Have just bought two point of lay chickens.  They are lovely!  However, having read all the books all the information seems to conflict.  I am feeding them only layers mash and no treats which seems a bit harsh.  Have been told not to give them corn or greenery until they start to lay?  Anyone got any first hand advice please.  They are not roaming the garden but are in a run so that might make a difference.  Thanks for the help.

[GrannieAnnie]

Hi Penny Finn and welcome to the madhouse, sorry I mean hen house!!!! lol

We give our pullets (young chickens) corn and greenery quite early.  greenery like chickweed to start then on to grass and dandelions, and Munty will tell you that dandelion and cabbage are good for them.  then at about 8 weeks or so a bit of corn, but give the corn in the late afternoon a couple of hours before it gets dark as it takes longer to digest.

We also give ours layers pellets, but it is a matter of personal choice, and I know some people on here like mash.  But pellets don't make so much mess as mash.  Don't give them tooooo many treat treats though, but they love rice and pasta on the odd occasion!

[Penny Finn]

Hi Penny Finn and welcome to the madhouse, sorry I mean hen house!!!! lol

We give our pullets (young chickens) corn and greenery quite early.  greenery like chickweed to start then on to grass and dandelions, and Munty will tell you that dandelion and cabbage are good for them.  then at about 8 weeks or so a bit of corn, but give the corn in the late afternoon a couple of hours before it gets dark as it takes longer to digest.

We also give ours layers pellets, but it is a matter of personal choice, and I know some people on here like mash.  But pellets don't make so much mess as mash.  Don't give them tooooo many treat treats though, but they love rice and pasta on the odd occasion!

Thank you for the advice.  Will try giving them a bit of green to keep them happy!  Can I ask another question - we have made a perch (higher than the nest box) and have adapted the shape of the nest box three times to try and stop them roosting on it.  Any suggestions?  I did take the box out at night a couple of times, but I don't want to miss an egg!!!

[Aunt Sally]

Layers pellets contain ALL they need for a healthy productive life - but not all the need for a happy one.  There is absolutly no reason that I know not to give your POLs some greens now !  As grannie says a few treats in the afternoon will add interest even if not good nutrition.  Free ranging on grass is the very best thing for them.  I would give them some fresh greens every day from now on

[GrannieAnnie]

Our nest boxes are all external, so we don't get the roosting on them problems!