Raising Chickens This Spring? Here's What You Need to Know
Spring is the season of fresh starts—and fluffy chicks. If you've been toying with the idea of starting your own backyard flock, now’s the perfect time to get cracking. (Yes, we went there.)
Raising chickens is rewarding, fun, and surprisingly therapeutic. Plus, it comes with perks like fresh eggs, natural fertilizer, and endless chicken content for your camera roll.
Let’s walk through the basics of getting started.
Not all chickens are created equal. Some lay more eggs, some are better for meat, and some just want to strut around looking fabulous. Do a little research and decide what you're hoping to get out of your flock—eggs, meat, companionship, or a mix of all three.
Ask us in the store if you need help choosing. We love a good chicken matchmaking moment.
Your chickens need a safe, cozy space to sleep, nest, and escape the elements. A good coop has:
• Sunlight and shade throughout the day
• Ventilation (fresh air = happy hens)
• Predator-proof features
• Roosting bars and nesting boxes
• Room to roam and space to grow
Treat it like chicken real estate. Location and layout matter.
Chickens need consistent access to quality feed—especially when they’re growing. Stock up on high-protein starter feed for chicks, and switch to layer feed once they’re mature enough to start laying. Set up multiple feeders to avoid chicken drama at mealtime. Bonus points for tossing in treats like mealworms or sunflower seeds every now and then.
Caring for chickens doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require consistency. Fresh water, clean bedding, and regular checks go a long way toward keeping your flock healthy and your coop from smelling like... well, a chicken coop. We carry everything you need to make the job easier—including bedding, feeders, waterers, and more.
Getting started with chickens may take a little prep, but the payoff is worth it. From the first fuzzy peep to that first golden egg, it’s a hobby that delivers—literally. Swing by Merriam Feed + Seed to pick up everything you need, and feel free to ask all the questions. Whether you’re going full homestead or just adding a little fluff to your backyard, we’re here to help.
