Imagine waking up and making an omelet with eggs you collected yourself! Raising laying hens is easier than you think and can save you money.

I have sold pullets (young laying hens) for more than 15 years. I start chicks in brooders until they are feathered out. At 4 weeks, they are moved outside in holding pens until sold or mature. When matured, I keep some of the pullets to be layers in my own hen house and enclosed run. My family will attest that fresh eggs are delicious; just like homegrown tomatoes!

From day old chicks to mature layers, I carry poultry all year long. Some of the best layers I have raised are: Production Reds (brown eggs), Barred Rocks (brown eggs), California White Leghorns (white eggs) and Americaunas (greenish-blue eggs). Other breeds can also be special ordered.

Get outside, breathe some fresh air and start growing! It’s a fun and healthy activity to raise your own food!