#How To Seedless Grapes Grow

[eximityin]

What Makes Indian Grapes a Global Favorite?

Over the past two decades, India has become a dominant name in the international fruit trade, particularly in the grape export segment. Indian grapes are winning over global markets with their exceptional sweetness, long shelf life, and compliance with stringent international safety norms.

From table grapes to seedless varieties, Indian farmers—especially in Maharashtra and Karnataka—have mastered the art of cultivating export-grade fruit. These regions offer ideal agro-climatic conditions that contribute to the superior quality of grapes India exports each year.

Why the World Loves Indian Grapes:

Naturally Sweet Taste: Indian grapes are known for their high sugar content and appealing flavor.

Variety of Seedless Options: Popular seedless varieties like Thompson Seedless and Sonaka attract buyers globally.

Residue-Free Farming: Exporters follow strict EU standards, ensuring that the grapes are free from harmful chemical residues.

Extended Shelf Life: Advanced cold chain logistics keep grapes fresh during long shipments.

Attractive Appearance: Uniform size, bright skin, and firm texture appeal to international consumers.

The rise in grapes export from India is also due to the structured support system for farmers and exporters. Organizations like APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) provide essential help through training, quality checks, and certification processes.

As demand continues to grow, many entrepreneurs and small-scale farmers are exploring opportunities to enter the export market. For those seeking guidance, the blog on How to Start Export Business in India offers a complete roadmap—from product selection and licensing to shipping and compliance.

India’s global success with grapes is not just about farming—it’s a story of innovation, precision, and a deep understanding of global market needs. As Indian exporters continue to build trust and deliver quality consistently, Indian grapes are sure to remain a global favorite for years to come.

[petlover121]

Summer Feeding Tips: How to Choose the Right Bird Food in Summer

As temperatures rise and the sun blazes across the sky, birds—both wild and pet—face unique challenges in maintaining their health and energy levels. While summer may seem like an abundant season for birds, it brings specific dietary considerations that responsible bird owners and bird lovers must address. Understanding the right bird food in summer is crucial to ensure that your feathered friends remain hydrated, nourished, and active through the heat.

In this blog, we will explore expert-approved summer feeding tips, the best types of birds food for warm weather, and how to safely feed pet bird food to indoor and outdoor birds during the hot months.

Why Summer Feeding Requires Special Consideration

Unlike winter feeding, where birds seek high-fat foods to generate body heat, summer requires a different approach. Birds are more prone to dehydration, bacterial contamination from spoiled food, and heat-related stress. By choosing the right bird food in summer, you can support their metabolism, aid breeding birds with the nutrition they need, and help younger birds grow strong and healthy.

1. Prioritize Fresh and Moisture-Rich Food

Just like humans, birds require more hydration in hot weather. Including fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet can provide essential vitamins and moisture.

Ideal moisture-rich foods include:

Watermelon (seedless)

Grapes (halved)

Cucumbers

Berries (blueberries, raspberries)

Oranges

These not only support hydration but also make a welcome change from dry seed mixes.

Tip: Wash fruits thoroughly and remove any seeds that may be harmful before feeding them to birds.

2. Avoid High-Fat or Spoil-Prone Foods

In the heat, fatty foods can spoil quickly, leading to bacteria or mold growth. Suet, for instance, is better suited for cold weather unless labeled as “no-melt suet.”

Instead, focus on:

Sunflower seeds (with shells)

Safflower seeds

Nyjer seeds (great for finches)

These seeds are less likely to spoil and remain nutrient-rich throughout the summer.

3. Offer Bird Food Early in the Day

Feeding birds in the early morning ensures the food is fresh and helps them fuel up before the heat peaks. Avoid feeding during midday hours when the sun is most intense, as food can spoil faster and feeders may heat up to unsafe levels.

Early feedings also align with natural bird activity peaks.

4. Maintain Clean Feeders and Water Sources

Dirty feeders can harbor harmful bacteria, especially in hot conditions. Clean feeders with mild soap and warm water at least once a week—or more frequently during heatwaves.

Tips:

Remove uneaten food daily.

Keep feeders in shaded areas.

Provide clean, shallow water dishes or birdbaths and change water daily.

Providing fresh water is just as important as food, particularly when offering dry birds food options.

5. Adjust Pet Bird Food for Indoor Birds in Summer

Indoor birds may not be exposed to the same temperatures as wild birds, but they still need seasonal adjustments. Excessive heat indoors or poor air circulation can affect their appetite and energy levels.

Recommended summer adjustments for pet birds:

Reduce fatty seed treats.

Add leafy greens like kale, spinach, and romaine.

Include chopped fruits like apples, mangoes, or papaya.

Ensure proper ventilation in cages.

Always ensure that your pet bird food is fresh, well-balanced, and free from mold or spoilage.

6. Use Shade and Ventilation for Outdoor Feeding

To prevent food spoilage, place bird feeders in shaded areas or use covered feeders. This keeps food cooler and encourages birds to feed without overheating.

Feeder types best suited for summer:

Mesh feeders (airflow reduces moisture buildup)

Platform feeders with cover

Window feeders installed on the shaded side of a home

7. Avoid Overfeeding – Feed Small, Frequent Portions

Instead of filling feeders to the brim, offer smaller quantities of bird food in summer to prevent waste and spoilage. Refill them once or twice a day based on bird activity and temperature.

This also helps reduce the risk of attracting pests like ants and raccoons.

8. Support Breeding Birds with Protein

During summer, many birds are in their breeding season and need extra protein to support chick development.

Great protein options include:

Dried or live mealworms

Crushed boiled eggs (including shells for calcium)

Soft, high-protein pellets for pet birds

Supplementing pet bird food with protein ensures strong bones and healthy feathers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right bird food in summer involves more than just filling a feeder. It means understanding birds’ seasonal needs, adjusting their diet for hydration and health, and taking precautions to avoid spoilage and contamination.

Whether you're offering birds food in your garden or preparing pet bird food at home, these thoughtful tips will ensure your feathered companions stay healthy, active, and singing all summer long.

FAQs: Summer Bird Feeding Tips

Q1: Can I offer suet in summer?

Only if it’s labeled as “no-melt suet.” Traditional suet spoils quickly in high temperatures and can harm birds.

Q2: What’s the best time of day to feed birds during summer?

Early morning is ideal. Birds are most active, and the food stays fresh longer.

Q3: How do I know if birds food has gone bad?

Spoiled food often smells sour, appears clumpy or moldy, or attracts insects. Always discard questionable food.

Q4: What is the safest fruit to feed my pet bird in the summer?

Seedless apples, grapes, bananas, and berries are excellent. Avoid avocado, which is toxic to birds.

Q5: How can I keep bird baths clean and mosquito-free?

Change water daily and scrub baths every few days. Use shallow dishes to prevent mosquito larvae from developing.

[tameblog]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[ramestoryworld]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[alexha2210]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[angusstory]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[tumibaba]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[romaleen]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[monaleen101]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[iamownerofme]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[shelyold]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[iammeandmy]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[januishstory]

Giving natural feed is one of making your flocks healthy. If you’re a first time chicken owner, then you may wonder what your flock can eat to be healthy. Allowing chickens to get their food from outside allows them be active. It’s fascinating to watch feathered flocks pecking and scratching around the yard. Have you ever wondered what you can feed to maintain healthy and productive chickens? In this write-up, I’ll share 70 such things that chickens can eat. Before that, let’s know why it is essential to provide a balanced diet for chickens. Importance of Using a Balanced Chicken Feed The diet you provide your chickens influences egg production, the flavor of the meat, and their vibrant plumage. It is more than just filling their stomachs. A balanced feed lays the foundation for thriving and happy chicken. Young chickens that aren’t laying eggs need nutrient-rich feed to build stronger bones, strengthen the immune system, and develop the digestive system. Much like humans, without proper nutrient-rich feed, chickens won’t be able to reach their full potential. Not providing the required nutrients can result in a weak flock. For instance, low levels of calcium in chicken feed lead to thin and brittle egg shells. Note: Nutritional needs of chickens differ with growing stages. Protein needs of young chicks are usually 14-18% by feed weight; laying hens need 16-18% of the feed weight, and roosters need 9%. (Source) Homemade Chicken Feed As chicken feed is expensive, first-time chicken growers would love to make their chicken feed at home. With homemade chicken feed, you’re able to provide the most possible natural diet to your flocks. Apart from this, you can increase or decrease ingredients to make it nutritious. Just remember to include these five essential nutrients in the feed: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. A simple chicken feed recipe includes: Wheat – 30% Corn – 30% Peas – 20% Fish Meal – 10% Oats – 10% Poultry Nutri-Balancer – 2% Free Choice Kelp Free Choice Aragonite Mix the listed ingredients and serve your chickens. Apart from this, you might want to serve different things to your feathered flocks. Below mentioned are 70 such things that can be used as chicken feed. Check this: How to Keep Chickens from Getting Bored? List of Foods that Chickens Can Eat Grains (corn, wheat, barley) Seeds (sunflower seeds, flaxseeds) Fruits (apples, berries, melons) Vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas) Insects (mealworms, crickets, flies) Cooked Eggs Dairy Products (yogurt, cheese) Legumes (beans, lentils) Fish (cooked) Nuts (peanuts, almonds) Oats Rice Quinoa Millet Buckwheat Amaranth Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) Spinach Kale Swiss chard Broccoli Cauliflower Cabbage Brussels sprouts Celery Cucumber Zucchini Squash Bell peppers Tomatoes (ripe, in moderation) Strawberries Blueberries Raspberries Blackberries Peaches Pears Bananas Mangoes Pineapple Papaya Watermelon Cantaloupe Honeydew Oranges (in moderation) Lemons (in moderation) Limes (in moderation) Grapes (seedless, in moderation) Cherries (pitted, in moderation) Plums (pitted) Apricots Fig Dates Coconut (fresh or dried) Almonds (unsalted, shelled) Walnuts (unsalted, shelled) Cashews (unsalted, shelled) Pecans (unsalted, shelled) Hazelnuts (unsalted, shelled) Macadamia nuts (unsalted, shelled) Pistachios (unsalted, shelled) Brazil nuts (unsalted, shelled) Chestnuts (unsalted, shelled) Chia seeds Hemp seeds Pumpkin flesh (cooked) Sweet potatoes (cooked) Carrots (cooked) Beets (cooked) How to Save Money on Chicken Feed? Raising chickens can be expensive if you’ve to buy feed from the store regularly. Making your chicken feed at home is one way to avoid or reduce the cost of feed. A few more ways are listed below. Free-ranging Allow chickens in your backyard or fenced area to forage for insects, worms, grass, and other natural. This provides additional protein and nutrients to their diet at no extra cost to you. Grow Your Feed Planting grains, vegetables, and herbs can provide supplementary feed for your chickens. Consider growing crops like corn, sunflowers, kale, and comfrey, which are nutritious and easy to cultivate. Bulk Buying Purchase chicken feed in bulk quantities to take advantage of discounts offered by feed stores or suppliers. Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per pound or kilogram, saving you money in the long run. Substitutions Supplement the commercial feed with kitchen scraps, garden surplus, and leftovers from your meals. Many kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peels, fruit cores, and cooked grains, are safe and nutritious for chickens. Just make sure to avoid feeding them anything on the “do not eat” list. Homemade Chicken Feed Consider making your chicken feed mixes using locally sourced ingredients. This allows you to tailor the feed to your flock’s nutritional needs while potentially reducing costs compared to commercial feed. Recipes often include grains, legumes, seeds, and supplements like calcium and vitamins. Feeding Scraps Partner with local bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to acquire food waste, such as stale bread, fruit and vegetable trimmings, or expired produce. This diverts food from landfills while providing free or low-cost feed for your chickens. Fermentation Fermenting grains before feeding them to your chickens can increase their digestibility and nutrient availability while reducing the amount needed. This process also helps prevent feed wastage and spoilage, ultimately saving you money on feed costs. Co-op Purchasing Consider joining or forming a feed-buying cooperative with other poultry owners in your area. By purchasing feed in bulk together, you can leverage collective buying power to negotiate better prices from suppliers. Minimize Waste Implement feeding practices that minimize feed wastage, such as using feeders designed to reduce spillage and feeding smaller quantities more frequently to prevent overeating and spoilage. Rotate Pastures If you have access to multiple grazing areas, rotate your chickens between pastures to allow vegetation to recover and minimize reliance on purchased feed. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce your chicken feed costs while ensuring that your flock remains healthy, productive, and well-nourished. Check this: How to Raise Baby Chicks without Heat Lamp? Avoid these Food Items Avocado (contains persin, toxic to chickens) Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to chickens) Onions (can cause anemia and digestive issues) Garlic (can taint the taste of eggs and cause digestive upset) Citrus Fruits (high acidity can upset the digestive system) Rhubarb (contains oxalic acid, toxic) Raw Potatoes (contain solanine, poisonous) Tomato Leaves (contain solanine, toxic to chickens) Moldy or Spoiled Foods (can cause illness or death) Caffeine (found in coffee grounds and tea bags, can be lethal) Salty Foods (can lead to electrolyte imbalances) Sugary Foods (can cause obesity and digestive issues) Fried Foods (high in unhealthy fats) Processed Foods (lack nutritional value) Raw Beans (contain lectins and enzyme inhibitors) Green Potatoes (contain solanine) Junk Food (chips, candy, etc.) Alcohol (toxic to chickens) Medications (without veterinary supervision) Tobacco (contains nicotine, toxic) Dried or Uncooked Beans (contain lectins) Avocado Pits and Skins (contain person) Moldy Bread (may contain toxins) Dairy Products (in excess, can cause digestive upset) Greasy Foods (may lead to obesity and health issues) Processed Meats (high in salt and unhealthy additives) Fruit Seeds and Pits (contain cyanide in some cases) Raw Eggs (risk of salmonella contamination) Raw Fish (may contain harmful bacteria) Human Supplements (not formulated for chickens may be detrimental) Conclusion Chickens need nutrient-rich feed according to their growth stage. Calcium, proteins, minerals, carbohydrates, and fats in the feed help the chicken to strengthen their bones, build a robust immune system, and improve their digestive system. Various things can be used to feed chickens, but first-time chicken growers must refrain from giving certain things to flocks. For instance, moldy bread, tobacco, and junk food aren’t the right things for your feathered flocks.  Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting Source link

[vishakaraisins24]

Leading Golden Raisins Supplier & Manufacturer from Nashik, Maharashtra

When it comes to high-quality Golden Raisins, choosing the right supplier is crucial for businesses looking for purity, taste, and consistency. Vishaka Raisins stands out as a leading Golden Raisins Supplier from Nashik, offering premium-grade raisins sourced from the heart of India’s grape-growing region—Nashik. As a trusted Golden Raisins Manufacturer from Nashik, we are dedicated to delivering the best quality raisins that meet international standards for taste, hygiene, and nutritional value.

Why Choose Vishaka Raisins?

Vishaka Raisins is not just a name; it is a symbol of trust, quality, and excellence in the dried fruit industry. With years of experience in Golden Raisin production, we have established ourselves as a Golden Raisins Supplier from Nashik with a reputation for providing premium-grade products at competitive prices.

The Process – From Vine to Table

As a well-established Golden Raisins Manufacturer from Nashik, we ensure that our production process adheres to the highest industry standards. Here’s how we bring you the best-quality Golden Raisins:

Careful Grape Selection – We source the finest Thompson Seedless grapes from Nashik, known for their natural sweetness and superior quality.

Natural Drying Process – The grapes are carefully dried under controlled conditions to achieve the signature golden color and rich flavor.

Hygienic Processing – We use advanced techniques to clean, sort, and grade the raisins, ensuring uniform size, color, and taste.

Why Nashik is the Ideal Place for Golden Raisins Production?

Nashik, Maharashtra, is one of the best regions for grape cultivation due to its favorable climate and rich soil. The combination of optimal sunlight, moderate temperatures, and advanced farming techniques makes Nashik the leading hub for Golden Raisin production in India. That’s why Vishaka Raisins, as a Golden Raisin Supplier from Maharashtra, ensures that only the best-quality raisins reach our customers.

If you are looking for a Golden Raisins Supplier from Nashik that guarantees premium quality, Vishaka Raisins is your ideal choice. Whether you need bulk supply for your business or require customized packaging for exports, we provide top-notch raisins that meet your specific requirements.

Contact us today for bulk orders and experience the unmatched quality of our Golden Raisins!

Visit: https://www.vishakaraisins.com/nashik-golden-raisins   

Contact:  Tel. : +91 9766666007

[sillesode-blog]

Spring is so close! I can almost feel it in my thumbs (⁀ᗢ⁀)。！(get it, cuz green thumbs?)

In my country we actually say green fingers, not just thumbs, so I guess I can say I feel it in my fingers? Σ(-᷅_-᷄๑)

Well today my partner and I went to look at the local seed collection, also known as the closest Bauhaus. It's a bit early for my counties growing season but we were I town for his mother's birthday so it fit pretty well.

Anyhow, I was initially a little disappointed at the range of options when it came to their seed assortment. (￣^￣|||) but then again I am a little picky when it comes to my seed choices.

However I managed to get some of the seeds I was looking for.

Here we have the selection! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

I will be honest and say that the cantaloupe seeds are a little ambitious for my counties weather, but I'm praying that it will work out somehow ¯\_(ツ)_/¯.

However everything else was actually on my list.

When it comes to selecting seeds, I am (as I mentioned) a little picky.

I've learnt from the garlic crisis of last year.

I've carefully researched and selected a few variaties of vegetables and fruits that would suit my garden and the time I have on my hands to ensure a good harvest.

However I still have a long way to go but with these plants I'm sure that I will have a good start (◕ᗜ◕✿).

One key feature to look out for if you want a bountiful harvest is parthenocarpic plants.

Parthenocarpic plants are (from my understanding) plants that don't need or require very little pollination to fruit! ∑(; °Д°)

Isnt that amazing?!

To think we've been able breed a plant like that!

However parthenocarpic plants do not have seeds inside of them since there wasn't any pollination. (that's how stores can sell seedless grapes and alike)

I think it's really really cool. (b^_^)b

Next post is probably gonna be about going into depth about my seed selection but no promises v(ツ)v

Untill next time!

[necarion]

With agricultural techniques, we can produce and grow plants that wouldn't grow well in the wild. Modern wheat is much shorter, which means it has higher yields because it wastes less energy in the stalks. But it means that modern wheat cannot disperse its seeds as well. Or seedless grapes. How the fuck are those going to be able to propagate if we aren't spreading clippings?

But this potentially opens up avenues for improving agricultural plants with genetic engineering. It's plausible that modern C4 photosynthesis is some sort of local optimum. But you could imagine some sort of altered plant that photosynthesizes way better, and also has no pest resistance, or is totally sterile in the wild.