How to Naturally Boost Egg Production in Winter

rusticrootsheritag
Jan 7, 2025
3 min read

Winter is a challenging time for backyard chicken keepers. Shorter days and colder weather often mean fewer eggs in the nesting boxes. However, while many turn to artificial lighting to stimulate egg production, I firmly believe in giving chickens the rest they need during these months. Instead, I focus on boosting their overall health with natural methods—specifically by incorporating herbs into their diet. Healthy hens are more likely to continue laying, albeit at a slower pace than in the peak seasons of spring and summer.

Here’s how you can naturally support your chickens’ health and egg production through the winter with the help of some amazing herbs:

Why Use Herbs?

Herbs are not just for human health; they offer incredible benefits for chickens too! They can improve digestion, strengthen the immune system, and even help regulate stress levels. Healthy, happy hens are more likely to produce eggs, even during the darker months.

The Best Herbs for Chickens and Their Benefits

1. Oregano

Benefits: Oregano is a powerful natural antibiotic and antiviral. It helps boost the immune system, which is particularly important in winter when chickens are more susceptible to respiratory infections.
How to Use: Add fresh or dried oregano to their feed or water. You can also hang bunches in the coop for them to peck at.

2. Thyme

Benefits: Thyme is another immune booster with antimicrobial properties. It’s particularly effective against respiratory issues and can improve gut health.
How to Use: Sprinkle dried thyme into their feed or mix it into homemade treats.

3. Parsley

Benefits: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, parsley supports overall health and improves blood circulation. It also helps with feather growth, which is important during molting seasons.
How to Use: Chop fresh parsley and mix it into their feed or offer it as a treat.

4. Sage

Benefits: Sage supports respiratory health, aids in digestion, and has natural antibacterial properties. It’s a great herb to keep your flock healthy during the colder months.
How to Use: Add chopped or dried sage to their feed or mix it into warm treats.

5. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Benefits: These flakes help improve circulation and keep chickens warm in the cold. They also act as a natural dewormer and immune booster.
How to Use: Sprinkle a small amount into their daily feed or mix into warm oatmeal on cold mornings.

6. Turmeric

Benefits: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It supports joint health and boosts the immune system, ensuring your hens stay active and healthy.
How to Use: Mix a pinch of turmeric into their feed or warm oatmeal treats.

7. Mint

Benefits: Mint is a natural stress reliever and can help keep the coop smelling fresh. Reduced stress levels mean healthier hens and better egg production.
How to Use: Scatter fresh mint leaves in the nesting boxes or feed it directly to your flock.

A Warm Winter Treat

On cold mornings, I like to make my hens warm oatmeal and mix in these herbs. It’s a comforting way to start their day and ensures they receive the best nutrition possible. Additionally, I mix these herbs into their daily feed to provide consistent health benefits year-round.

Protein Boost with Black Soldier Flies

Throughout the winter, I also give my hens black soldier flies as a treat. The added protein helps with egg production and keeps them happy. Stay tuned for a future blog post on how to raise black soldier flies and the amazing benefits they offer for your flock!

A Balanced Approach

While these herbs and treats can help maintain your chickens’ health and encourage egg production, it’s important to manage expectations. Winter is a time for rest and renewal for your flock, and their egg production will naturally decrease. By providing a warm, clean coop, nutritious feed, and these beneficial herbs, you’re setting them up for success without forcing them into an unnatural laying cycle.

Remember, happy, healthy chickens lay the best eggs. Let’s embrace the slower pace of winter while keeping our feathered friends in peak condition. After all, nature knows best—and so do your hens!