Many people keep hens to become more self-sufficient, but if their feed comes from a store, is it truly self-sufficient? While most flocks consume commercial layers' mash or pellets, there are ways to supplement or replace store-bought feed with homegrown options. Not only does this reduce costs, but it also provides variety and nutrition that chickens love.

Grains, Seeds & Legumes

Grains, seeds, and legumes form the bulk of commercial poultry feed. They are affordable, store well, and can be grown in most climates. Sprouting grains, seeds, and legumes unlocks additional nutrients, making them easier to digest.

How to Sprout Fodder for Chickens

A sprouted fodder system is a cost-effective way to enhance poultry nutrition.

1. Choose a Grain – Barley, wheatgrass, oats, and legumes like peas and beans work well.

2. Soak – Soak grains in cool water for at least 12 hours.

3. Drain & Spread – Spread grains no deeper than 1/2 inch in shallow trays with drainage holes.

4. Provide Light & Water – Keep in a well-lit area (60-75°F) and water multiple times daily.

5. Harvest in 6-7 Days – Once sprouts reach 6 inches, they are ready to feed.

A 2-pound batch of barley produces 12-15 pounds (5-7 kg) of fodder, offering great value for money. Rotational tray planting ensures a daily supply of fresh fodder. If your chickens have limited access to grass, sprouted fodder is a fantastic alternative for achieving darker, healthier yolks.

Feeding Dry & Soaked Seeds 

Seeds can be fed whole, rolled, or ground, but soaking enhances digestion and hydration. Mixing soaked seeds into a porridge with regular feed ensures they eat everything provided.

Safe Grains, Seeds & Legumes for Chickens

Grains: Barley, wheat, oats, quinoa, millet, rye, spelt, rice, corn

Seeds: Sunflower, pumpkin, flax, hemp, sesame, chia, sorghum

Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, peas, mung beans, soybeans, kidney beans

Fruits, Vegetables & Herbs 

Chickens love fresh produce, making homegrown fruits, veggies, and herbs a great supplement. In the UK, feeding kitchen scraps is illegal due to disease control laws, but in many other countries, rules are more relaxed.

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Safe Fruits, Vegetables & Herbs

Fruits: Berries, melons, apples, pears, bananas, pineapples, grapes, papayas, cherries, kiwis

Vegetables: Carrots, beets, squash, courgettes, cucumbers, brassicas (broccoli, kale, cabbage)

Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme, sage, parsley, mint, dill, calendula, clover

To make feeding more engaging, hang veggies in bunches, string them as an edible garland, or place them in a mesh feeder to keep them clean.

Insects, Meat & Natural Proteins

Chickens are natural omnivores. Free-range birds eagerly consume worms, insects, and even small rodents. However, feeding meat is restricted in the UK due to disease concerns.

Black soldier fly larvae (BSL) and mealworms provide excellent protein and calcium. In many European countries, surplus food is now being fed to larvae to produce sustainable animal feed.

Calcium Supplements 

Instead of oyster shells, bake and crush eggshells or snail shells to provide a natural calcium source. Hens require 2-3g of calcium daily for strong eggshells.

Foods to Avoid 

Certain foods are toxic or dangerous for chickens and should be avoided:

- Long Grass & Hay – Can cause crop impaction.
- Avocados – Persin toxin in skin, pit, and leaves is harmful.
- Citrus Fruits – High acidity may disrupt digestion and calcium absorption.
- Rhubarb – Contains toxic oxalic acid.
- Unripe/Green Potatoes & Tomatoes – Contain solanine, a harmful compound.
- Fruit Pits & Seeds – Apple, cherry, peach, and apricot pits contain cyanogenic compounds.
- Mango Skins & Seeds – May cause digestive issues.

Final Thoughts

Offering a diverse diet benefits your flock's health, cuts costs, and enhances egg quality. Whether it's homegrown grains, sprouted fodder, fresh vegetables, or natural protein sources, these alternative feeds ensure happier, healthier hens.