Feed a good commercial starter feed for the first 6 weeks. From 9 to 20 weeks feed a grower feed. Starter and grower should contain a drug for prevention of coccidiosis. At 20 weeks switch to a layer feed and continue throughout the laying life of the hen. Grower and layer feeds can be in all-mash, crumble or pellet form.
Feed troughs can be full during the first day or two of the chick's life.
Occasionally you can allow the birds to eat all the feed from the troughs to prevent accumulation of dirty, dry, and stale feed. Water is one of the most important requirements for poultry. Be sure that chickens have a supply of clean, cool drinking water at all times. Clean all waterers daily. Keep them in the shade and avoid leaks and spills.