Raising egg laying chickens is a rewarding experience that brings a bit of country charm right to your backyard or homestead, whether you’re a seasoned poultry keeper or just starting with your first small flock. Folks choose egg layers for all sorts of reasons—from wanting farm-fresh eggs on the table each morning to teaching kids about responsibility, or even just for the joy of watching hens scratch and peck around the yard. As September rolls in and the days start to shorten, you’ll notice your hens might slow down on laying, since daylight hours play a big role in egg production. Many chicken keepers look into supplemental lighting to keep those eggs coming steady through the fall and winter months. It’s also a good time of year to check on your coop’s insulation and make sure your girls have a cozy, draft-free space to roost. Molting season often hits in the autumn, too, so you might spot more feathers than eggs for a few weeks—don’t worry, it’s just your hens focusing their energy on growing new plumage.
When you’re picking out products for your egg layers, there’s a lot to consider to keep your flock healthy and productive. A well-balanced diet is the backbone of good egg production, so look for feeds that are specially formulated for laying hens, packed with calcium and protein to support strong shells and steady laying. Waterers and feeders that are easy to clean and refill make daily chores a breeze, especially when the weather turns chilly and you want to get back inside quick. Nesting boxes lined with soft bedding give your hens a comfortable spot to lay, and collecting fresh eggs each day is a simple joy that never gets old. If you’ve got young kids or grandkids, gathering eggs can be a fun family tradition—there’s nothing quite like the excitement of finding a still-warm egg nestled in the straw. Some folks even put together starter kits as gifts for friends or neighbors who are new to keeping chickens, since a few basic supplies go a long way toward happy, healthy hens.
As your hens start filling up the egg basket, you’ll want to think about the best way to keep your bounty fresh. Whether you’re cooking up breakfast for the family or sharing with neighbors, proper storage makes all the difference in taste and safety. You can find all sorts of options for keeping your eggs organized and protected, from simple cartons to stackable trays and wire baskets. For tips and solutions on how to store your fresh eggs, check out our
Egg Storage page, where you’ll find everything you need to keep your harvest at its best. No matter the season, giving your flock the right care and equipment means you’ll enjoy farm-fresh eggs and the satisfaction of raising your own chickens year-round.
