Archive for the ‘News & Updates’ Category

Winter Deer Feeding: Boost Your Herd’s Health

Friday, January 2nd, 2026

Training Deer to Eat From the Feeder. Winter Deer Nutrition at J&N FeedWhy Winter Deer Nutrition & Feeding Matters for Next Season

As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, you might notice less activity at your deer feeders. It’s easy to think that once the rut is over and hunting season winds down, the work is done. But experienced land managers know that winter is actually a critical time for winter deer nutrition to ensure your herd survives and thrives through the harshest months.

Feeding your deer herd during and after the rut sets the stage for success next year. Whether you are managing for trophy bucks or a healthy population, winter nutrition is the key. At J&N Feed & Seed, we want to help you understand why keeping those feeders full right now makes a massive difference for bucks, does, and fawns alike.

Helping Bucks Recover After the Rut

By the time winter hits, bucks have already achieved their hard rack and antler size for the year. However, they are often physically exhausted. During the rut, bucks are incredibly active and eat significantly less. It is common for a mature buck to lose 10% to 30% of his body weight while chasing does and defending territory.

Winter feeding isn’t about growing antlers right this second; it’s about recovery. Feeding bucks during the fall and winter allows them to regain the crucial weight they lost.

Think of it as an investment in next spring. If a buck enters the spring season in good body condition, he can immediately direct nutrients toward antler growth. If he enters spring skinny and weak, his body must first prioritize regaining weight before it can even think about growing bone.

During this recovery phase, you don’t necessarily need the high-protein diet used for maximum antler growth in summer. Instead, focus on a well-balanced diet. We recommend a feed with roughly 16% protein, added fat, and minerals. This is far more beneficial than simple corn, which offers energy but lacks the complex nutrition needed for recovery.

Supporting Does for Future Fawns

The does in your herd have had a long year, too. After spending the summer producing milk for one to three fawns, a doe’s body condition is naturally depleted. Just like the bucks, she needs to regain weight to survive the winter. But for does, this weight gain is also critical for reproduction.

Research on mule deer has shown a strong link between nutrition and pregnancy rates. Does that have a higher intake of digestible energy the month before breeding season show improved pregnancy rates. Furthermore, does with greater body fat reserves are more likely to produce twins.

By supplementing their diet now, you are directly influencing the size and health of next year’s fawn crop. A healthy doe means a successful spring.

Giving Fawns a Fighting Chance

Winter can be particularly harsh on the youngest members of the herd. Does in good body condition during gestation tend to produce heavier fawns. This birth weight matters immensely. Fawns born with low birth weights face a much higher risk of mortality within their first week of life.

Fall and winter feeding benefits fawns born at different times of the summer:

  • Early Summer Fawns: These deer are being weaned in early fall. Depending on the natural forage available on your land, they often need supplemental feed to transition smoothly away from their mother’s milk.
  • Late Summer Fawns: These younger deer need extra help to achieve an adequate body size to survive the freezing temperatures of winter.

In both scenarios, fawns learn by watching. They see the does consuming supplemental feed and start nibbling it themselves. Weaning is a stressful period, and having an easy, nutrient-dense food source helps support them during this transition.

The Bottom Line on Winter Deer Nutrition & Feeding

Most hunters understand the importance of spring and summer feeding for antler growth. However, continuing your feeding program through the fall and winter is just as vital. It supports the nutrient requirements of every class of deer—bucks, does, and fawns.

By maintaining body weight and condition now, you ensure your herd doesn’t just survive the winter, but thrives going into the next season.

Ready to stock up?
Stop by J&N Feed & Seed today. We can help you select the right supplemental deer feed to keep your herd healthy, strong, and ready for next year.

Planting Seed Potatoes

Friday, January 2nd, 2026

Planting Seed PotatoesPotatoes are a staple in many households across the world. They are versatile, tasty, and easy to cook. However, not many people know about seed potatoes and how they can significantly affect the quality and quantity of your potato crop. We’ve put together some information about seed potatoes and tips for planting, so you can reap the benefits of seed potatoes too.

What are seed potatoes?
Seed potatoes are potatoes that have been carefully selected, stored, and saved from the previous year’s potato crop. These potatoes are precisely picked based on their size, shape, and quality and are free from any diseases or pests. Seed potatoes ensure that only the best potatoes get planted the following year, resulting in a higher yield and crop quality.

Why are seed potatoes important?
Seed potatoes are critical for any gardener who wants to produce a healthy and fruitful potato crop the following year. Using seed potatoes from a previous crop means that gardeners are not only using potatoes that have been carefully selected and verified but are also avoiding any possible disease or pest infestation.

How to choose the right seed potatoes?
Choosing the right seed potato is essential for producing a healthy potato crop. Gardeners should select potatoes that are firm, free from blemishes, and have a good shape. The chosen potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry place before planting. Before planting, gardeners should also inspect the potatoes to ensure that they are disease-free.

How to plant seed potatoes?
Gardeners should plant their seed potatoes in the spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. The selected potatoes should be cut into small pieces, each containing at least 2-3 eyes. Patios should be planted in the ground with the eyes facing upwards, ensuring that they are covered with soil. As the potatoes grow, gardeners should continue to cover the plants with soil to promote growth.

When to harvest seed potatoes?
Seed potatoes should be harvested in the summer or fall when the plants start to die back. The potatoes will be ready for harvest when the leaves turn brown and start to wilt. Gardeners should carefully dig the potatoes out of the ground to avoid damaging them.

Seed potatoes are a great option for gardeners who want to get a head start on their potato crop. They help produce a healthy, high-yield potato crop. Keep our tips in mind when choosing and planting seed potatoes in your garden for a successful yield. Remember, a healthy and fruitful potato crop results from using healthy seed potatoes!

Planning Your Garden

Friday, January 2nd, 2026

If you’re looking to grow your own food and enjoy the rewards of a flourishing garden, you’re in the right place. January marks the perfect time of year to start planning and getting everything ready. Whether it’s your first time starting a garden or you’re a seasoned green thumb, there are a few steps you need to take in order to achieve a thriving garden. In this guide, we’ll help you through the essential steps that need to be taken so you can have a successful garden come spring.

Step 1: Decide What to Plant

When it comes to planning your garden, you must first decide on what type of vegetables you would like to grow. Start by deciding what your family enjoys eating and make a list of the produce they love. Next, check which crops are best suited for the climate you live in and what will grow best in your soil type. Consider planting perennial crops that come back year after year, or focus on annual plants that produce food more quickly. Keep in mind that you should space out your plantings to ensure you get fresh vegetables throughout the entire growing season.

Step 2: Choose Your Site

Choosing the right site for your garden is crucial to its success. Look for a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Avoid areas that tend to flood or are too rocky, as this can stunt plant growth. Also, pay attention to nearby trees that may cast shade over your garden bed and rob your plants of sunlight. If you are planting a container garden, make sure it has proper drainage holes to avoid over watering.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Soil preparation is essential to having a bountiful harvest. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the site that you have chosen. Next, consider tilling the soil to make it easier for your plants’ roots to grow. Adding organic matter to the soil can also provide necessary nutrients for your plants to thrive. Compost is a natural option for enriching your soil and can be added in the fall or early winter before planting.

Step 4: Planting and Care

It’s now time to get your soil ready and begin planting. Make sure to check the seed packet for the ideal planting time and depth, as well as how far apart the seeds should be spaced. Once planted, regular watering is essential for plants to grow healthy and strong. Consider drip irrigation or a hose with a low-pressure nozzle that can help water the plants at the root level. Regularly fertilizing with organic fertilizers will also keep nutrients flowing to your plants.

Step 5: Pest and Weed Control

Pests and weeds can be a common issue when planting a garden. To avoid problems, consider using organic means to control and keep weeds at bay rather than using toxic herbicides, which can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Consider using natural pest control methods such as companion planting and crop rotation to help control pests and insects. Also, try using natural pest deterrents like plant oils, insecticidal soaps, and beer and yeast traps.

Now that we’ve walked through the various steps involved in planning your garden, you’ll be well-equipped to get started. Sure, there might be a little hard work involved in the process, but the rewards of a flourishing garden that provides fresh, organic produce are more than worth the effort. Remember, planning is paramount to a successful garden, so take the time to choose your site and plant accordingly, and you’ll be on your way come springtime.

Guide to Growing Onion Sets

Friday, January 2nd, 2026

Growing Onion SetsAre you a gardener who wants to add more variety to your vegetable garden? If so, you might want to consider growing onion sets. Onion sets are small onions that are grown from seeds and then transplanted into your garden. They’re a great option for gardeners who want to get a head start on their onion crop without waiting for a full year. In this guide, we’ll talk about the benefits of planting onion sets and how to grow them successfully.

Let’s go over some of the benefits of using onion sets. One of the biggest advantages is time. By planting onion sets in the fall, you’ll be able to harvest your crop in the spring or early summer, rather than waiting an entire year for onions to mature. Onion sets are also easier to plant than onion seeds, as they don’t require a lot of time or effort to get started. Additionally, onion sets are less prone to disease and pests.

So how do you grow onion sets? The first step is to choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Onions prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8. You can test your soil’s pH using a kit from your local garden center. We have pH kits to choose from in the garden department of our store that are perfect for the job. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, prepare the soil by tilling it and adding compost or other organic matter.

When planting your onion sets, make sure to space them about 4-6 inches apart and plant them at a depth of about 1 inch. Push each set into the soil until the tip is barely visible. Onions don’t need a lot of water, but make sure to keep them well-watered during dry spells. You can also mulch around your onions to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

As your onions grow, be sure to keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Common onion pests include onion maggots, thrips, and onion flies, while common onion diseases include downy mildew, onion smut, and white rot. If you notice any issues, remove affected plants and treat the surrounding soil with an organic fungicide or insecticide.

Finally, you can harvest your onion sets. Onions are ready to harvest when the tops dry out and start to fall over. At this point, stop watering your onions and let them cure in the garden for a week or two. Once the outer skin is papery and the tops are dry and brittle, you can harvest your onions. Hang them in a cool, dry place for a few weeks to allow them to fully cure before storing them in a cool, dry spot.

Growing onion sets is a great way to add a quick and easy crop to your vegetable garden. With the right growing conditions and care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown onions in just a few months. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to a bumper onion crop in no time!

Holiday Pet Safety Tips

Wednesday, December 10th, 2025

Puppy Wearing Antlers by Christmas TreeAs the holidays approach, it’s a joyous time for us, but it can be quite stressful for our pets. With colder weather, decorations, and fireworks, there are a lot of things that can make our furry friends feel uneasy. It’s important to take measures to ensure that our pets stay warm, comfortable, and safe during the holiday season. In this guide we will discuss some common concerns pet owners face during the holidays and how to take care of our pets.

Keeping Pets Warm During Cold Weather
The winter season can be harsh for our pets, especially those who are not used to the cold. It’s important to keep your pets warm and comfortable during the winter months. For dogs, consider getting a coat or sweater to keep them cozy. For cats, consider providing them with a warm bed near a heat source or a heated pad. Keep in mind that pets may need more food during colder months to keep warm, so don’t forget to adjust their diet accordingly.

Preventing Pets from Getting into Holiday Decorations and Food
Decorations and holiday food can attract our pets’ attention, but they can also pose a threat to their health. Ribbons, tinsels, and ornaments can easily be ingested by pets, causing digestive problems or even blockages. Avoid using materials that are easily chewed or broken. Keep holiday food away from your pets! Some foods, like chocolate, can be toxic to pets. If you want to give your pet a treat, consider giving them a small amount of pet-friendly food.

Keeping Pets Safe During Fireworks Displays
Fireworks displays can be a source of anxiety for our pets. The loud noises and flashes of light can be overwhelming. If you plan to attend a fireworks display, consider leaving your pets at home. If you’re staying at home, make sure to close all windows and doors and turn on some background noise, like the TV or radio, to help mask the noise. If your pet becomes anxious, try to comfort them, but don’t punish them for their behavior.

Keeping an Eye on Your Pets
During the holidays, it’s important to monitor your pets for signs of stress or illness. Pets can become overwhelmed, anxious, or show signs of distress. Keep an eye on their behavior and make sure they have a place to retreat to if they become overwhelmed. If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Spend Time with Your Pets
The holidays can be a busy time, but it’s important to make time for your pets. Spending quality time with them can help alleviate their stress and anxiety. Take them for a walk, play with them, or snuggle with them on the couch. Your pets will appreciate the extra attention and love.

The holidays can be a wonderful time for us and our pets, but it’s important to keep in mind their safety and comfort amidst all the festivities. Be sure to follow these tips to keep pets safe and relieve pet stress for both you and your pet.

Three Tips To Help Molting Chickens

Tuesday, November 25th, 2025

It’s autumn. Time for comfy sweaters, pumpkin-flavored everything, and… vacation? For backyard chickens across the country, shorter days often signal time for a break. Birds may stop laying eggs, lose old feathers, and grow new ones. This annual vacation from egg laying is called molt.

Molt is driven by season and usually occurs in the fall when the hours of sunlight decrease. For our birds, fall means it’s time to prepare for winter, which requires quality feathers. That’s why hens take a vacation from laying eggs and redirect their energy to regrowing feathers.

 When do chickens molt?

This feather loss phenomenon first happens when birds are approximately 18 months old and then occurs annually. Backyard flock owners should expect about 8 weeks of feather loss and regrowth but could take up to 16 weeks for some birds.

Though the general process is similar, not all molting seasons are created equal.

The onset and length of the molt look different for each bird. How long chickens molt for depends on factors such as age, consumed nutrients, and the environment. You’ll often first notice that feathers are losing their sheen. Hens may then gradually lose a few feathers or it could happen overnight. We’ve noticed that more productive egg-layers and younger hens recover from molt more quickly than older or less productive hens. In any case, proper nutrients and management can help birds through molt.

Three tips for molting chickens

  1. Pack the protein Just like humans, birds need a different diet depending on their current activity or life stage. Protein is the key nutrient to pack in a flock’s diet during molt. The number one nutrient switches from calcium to protein during molt. This is because feathers are made of 80-85 percent protein, whereas eggshells are primarily calcium. When you notice your chickens losing feathers, switch to a complete feed that’s 20 percent protein and includes probiotics, prebiotics, and key vitamins and minerals. Purina® Flock Raiser® chicken feed is a key option. A high-protein complete feed can help hens channel nutrients into feather regrowth and get back to laying eggs.For organic flocks, try switching hens to Purina® Organic Starter-Grower when molting begins in order to maintain organic status and provide a higher level of nutrition they need for feather regrowth.
  2. Keep stress low
    While on vacation, people generally want plenty of comfort and room to relax. It isn’t so different inside the coop during molt. Keep molting chickens comfortable by preventing stress. During molt, the area where the feather shaft meets the skin can be very sensitive, so reduce handling and provide plenty of clean bedding. Offer enough space for your birds to rest and relax in private. For each bird, four square feet inside the coop and 10 square feet outside of the coop can keep them comfortable. In addition, provide access to plenty of fresh, clean water and proper air ventilation. Hydration and ventilation can help keep the backyard coop spa-like for feather regrowth. Avoid introducing new flock members during this time, as adding in new friends and potentially re-shuffling the pecking order could add stress.
  3. Transition back to layer feed
    Once birds are ready to return from vacation and begin producing eggs, it’s time to adjust the nutrient profile to match their energy needs once again. When hens begin laying eggs, transition back to a complete layer feed that matches your goals. Gradually mix the complete layer feed with the high-protein feed over the course of 7 to 10 days. This can help avoid digestive upsets and allows birds to get used to the taste and texture of their new feed. Once they’re back on a complete layer feed and have vibrant new feathers, get ready again for farm fresh eggs for your family.

Preparing Your Livestock for Winter Feeding

Friday, November 21st, 2025

Cattle eating hayWith colder weather on the horizon, many farmers and ranchers are preparing for the winter months. One of the most important things to consider when getting your animals ready for winter is their feed. During this time, hay becomes the most common type of feed for livestock. However, it is essential to ensure that you have enough hay to get your animals through the season. In addition, it is necessary to think about supplementing your hay with other feeds such as grain or grass to keep your animals healthy. We have some essential tips for feeding and nutrition that will help you prepare your livestock for winter.

1) Plan for Adequate Hay Supply

Before winter arrives, farmers and ranchers need to ensure that they have enough hay to meet the demands of their livestock. One of the key challenges in preparing for the winter months is predicting the amount of hay that will be required. To estimate your hay needs, you must consider the number of animals in your herd, their weight, and the duration of the winter months. To increase the amount of hay available, you may want to consider buying hay from other farmers. Purchasing a large quantity of hay can also help cut the cost per bale.

2) Supplement with Other Nutritious Feed

Unfortunately, hay alone may not be enough to provide your animals with the nutrition they need. During winter, your livestock needs an adequate amount of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, it is crucial to supplement their diets with other nutritious feeds. Grain is an excellent source of protein and helps to maintain body heat. However, you must be cautious when feeding grain to avoid overfeeding, which can cause digestive problems. Grass can provide your livestock with essential micronutrients. This means that you should graze your animals throughout the fall season before snow accumulates on the ground.

3) Provide Adequate Water

Water is critical to the health and survival of your livestock, particularly during the winter season. Since animals rely on hay to maintain their body heat, they consume less water, which can lead to dehydration. Therefore, it is essential to provide your animals with fresh, clean water at all times. Water sources should be checked daily to ensure that it is available and unfrozen. You can also consider installing heaters or de-icers for your water sources to keep them from freezing.

4) Monitor Your Livestock

During the winter months, it is essential to keep a close eye on your animals. Checking that they are eating adequately, drinking enough water, and staying warm is crucial. Moreover, monitoring your livestock helps to detect any signs of disease or illness that require vet attention.

5) Prepare Your Barns

As the cold weather sets in, you may want to prepare your barns for your animals’ comfort and safety. Ensure your barns have proper insulation, ventilation, and clean straw or bedding to keep livestock dry and warm. Ensure that all doors and windows are properly secured to keep the cold outside.

Preparing for winter and ensuring that your livestock’s feed and nutritional needs are met may seem overwhelming. However, with the right planning and preparation, farmers and ranchers can help their animals survive the harsh winter months. By incorporating these tips, you can increase your animals’ health and well-being throughout the winter season.

Texas 2025 – 2026 Hunting Season Dates

Thursday, November 20th, 2025

2025 – 2026 Texas Hunting Season DatesThe Texas 2025–2026  hunting season dates have been released by Texas Parks & Wildlife. You can find more details on their website, but before heading out, be sure to visit us at J&N Feed and Seed.

 

We carry a wide range of products and wildlife feeds for deer, game fish, and game birds. A well-designed supplemental feeding program can fill the nutritional gaps in an animal’s natural habitat, providing the essential nutrients needed for healthy and productive wildlife.

Game Animals

Javelina

Javelina season dates
Season Zone Dates
General North Oct. 1, 2025 – Feb. 22, 2026
South Sep. 1, 2025 – Aug. 31, 2026

Mule Deer

Mule deer season dates
Season Zone Dates
General Panhandle Nov. 22, 2025 – Dec. 7, 2025
Trans-Pecos Nov. 28, 2025 – Dec. 14, 2025
Archery Panhandle Sep. 27, 2025 – Nov. 21, 2025
Trans-Pecos Sep. 27, 2025 – Nov. 27, 2025

Pronghorn

Pronghorn season dates
Season Zone Dates
General 41 of 254 counties Oct. 4-19, 2025

Squirrel

Squirrel season dates
Season Zone Dates
General East Texas Oct. 1, 2025 – Feb. 22, 2026 & May 1-31, 2026
Other open counties Sep. 1, 2025 – Aug. 31, 2026
Youth-only East Texas Sep. 26-28, 2025

White-tailed Deer

White-tailed deer season dates
Season Zone Dates
General North Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
South Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 18, 2026
Special Late North Jan. 5-18, 2026
South Jan. 19, 2026 – Feb. 1, 2026
Youth-Only Early Season Oct. 24-26, 2025
Youth-Only Late Season Jan. 5-18, 2026
Archery 252 of 254 counties Sep. 27, 2025 – Oct. 31, 2025
Muzzleloader-Only 90 of 254 counties Jan. 5-18, 2026

Upland Game Birds

Chachalaca

Chachalaca season dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr & Willacy Counties Oct. 25, 2025 – Feb. 22, 2026

Pheasant

Pheasant season dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular Panhandle/South Plains Dec. 6, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026

Quail

Quail season dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026

Turkey

Wild Turkey

Wild Turkey season dates
Season Zone Dates
Fall North Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
South Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 18, 2026
Brooks, Kenedy, Kleberg & Willacy counties Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 22, 2026
Archery-only Sep. 27, 2025 – Oct. 31, 2025
Fall Youth-only North Oct. 24-26, 2025 & Jan. 5-18, 2026
South Oct. 24-26, 2025 & Jan. 19, 2026 – Feb. 1, 2026
Spring North Mar. 28, 2026 – May 10, 2026
South Mar. 14, 2026 – Apr. 26, 2026
One-turkey counties Apr. 1-30, 2026
East Apr. 22, 2026 – May 14, 2026
Spring Youth-Only North Mar. 21-22, 2026 & May 16-17, 2026
South Mar. 7-8, 2026 & May 2-3, 2026

Migratory Game Bird

Dove

Dove season dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular North Sep. 1, 2025 – Nov. 9, 2025 & Dec. 19, 2025 – Jan. 7, 2026
Central Sep. 1, 2025 – Oct. 26, 2025 & Dec. 12, 2025 – Jan. 14, 2026
South Sep. 14, 2025 – Oct. 26, 2025 & Dec. 12, 2025 – Jan. 22, 2026
Special White-winged Dove Days South Sep. 5-7, 2025 & Sep. 12-13, 2025

Duck

Duck season dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular High Plains Mallard Management Unit Oct. 18-19, 2025 & Oct. 24, 2025 – Jan. 25, 2026
North Nov. 8-30, 2025 & Dec. 6, 2025 – Jan. 25, 2026
South Nov. 1-30, 2025 & Dec. 13, 2025 – Jan. 25, 2026
Youth/Veterans High Plains Mallard Management Unit Oct. 11-12, 2025
North Nov. 1-2, 2025
South Oct. 25-26, 2025

Goose

Goose season dates
Season Zone Dates
Early Canada Goose East Sep. 13-28, 2025
Dark Geese West Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 1, 2026
East Nov. 1st, 2025 – Jan. 25, 2026
Light Geese West Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 1, 2026
East Nov. 1st, 2025 – Feb. 15, 2026

Rails, Gallinules & Moorhens

Rails, Gallinules & Moorhens hunting seasons and dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Sep. 20-28, 2025 & Nov. 1, 2025 – Dec. 31, 2025

Sandhill Cranes

Sandhill Cranes hunting seasons and dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular A Oct. 25, 2025 – Jan. 25, 2026
B Nov. 21, 2025 – Jan. 25, 2026
C Dec. 13, 2025 – Jan. 18, 2026

Snipe

Common season dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Nov. 1, 2025 – Feb. 15, 2026

Teal

Teal hunting seasons and dates
Season Zone Dates
September Teal Only Statewide Sep. 20-28, 2025

Woodcock

Woodcock hunting seasons and dates
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Dec. 18, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026

Traeger 2025 Holiday Sale

Thursday, November 20th, 2025

Traeger Holiday Sale at J&N Feed in Graham, TexasTraeger Holiday Sale: Grill Up the Perfect Gift

The Traeger Holiday Sale is here! As the lights twinkle and carols play, families are planning their festive feasts. This year, why not add a new flavor to your holiday traditions? Imagine the rich aroma of smoked turkey or a perfectly seared prime rib wafting through your backyard. With a Traeger grill, you can make that delicious vision a reality.

J&N Feed and Seed is excited to announce the Traeger Holiday Sales event, your chance to bring home the ultimate wood-fired grill. From November 19th through December 24th, we’re offering incredible savings of up to $300 on select Traeger grill models. This is the perfect opportunity to give the gift that keeps on grilling or to upgrade your own outdoor cooking setup just in time for the holidays.

Why Choose a Traeger Grill?

For those who love to cook outdoors, a Traeger grill is more than just a piece of equipment; it’s a gateway to a world of flavor. Unlike traditional gas or charcoal grills, Traeger grills use 100% pure hardwood pellets to infuse your food with authentic wood-fired taste. This technology provides precise temperature control, allowing you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and barbecue with consistent, delicious results every time.

The versatility of a Traeger is unmatched. You can slow-smoke a brisket for hours, bake a pizza with a crispy crust, or roast a chicken to juicy perfection. It simplifies the cooking process, letting the grill do the hard work while you enjoy time with family and friends. This holiday season, you could be the hero who serves up a memorable, flavor-packed feast that everyone will be talking about for years to come.

Stop by J&N Feed in Graham, Texas for all the details and save big on a Traeger Grill the Traeger Holiday Sale!

Attracting Birds to Your Backyard

Saturday, August 17th, 2024

Attracting Birds to Your BackyardSummer is a season of warmth, vibrant colors, and the joyful chirps of wild birds. For many, there’s something magical about having a variety of feathered friends visit your backyard. Whether you’re an experienced bird enthusiast or just starting out, attracting wild birds during the summer months can turn your garden into a bustling hub of nature’s beauty. Here’s how you can transform your outdoor space into a bird paradise.

1. Provide Fresh Water Sources

Water is a magnet for birds, especially during the warm summer months. Installing a bird bath or a water fountain in your backyard can attract a wide variety of birds. Ensure the water is clean and shallow enough for the birds to bathe and drink comfortably. Adding a few stones or branches inside the bath can give smaller birds a place to perch. Remember to change the water regularly to keep it fresh and prevent mosquitoes.

2. Offer a Variety of Foods

Different birds have different dietary needs, so offering a variety of food can attract a broader range of species. Here are some options to consider:

  • Seed Feeders: Fill them with sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, or mixed seeds to attract finches, cardinals, and sparrows.
  • Suet Feeders: Great for attracting woodpeckers, nuthatches, and titmice. Suet is especially important during summer when birds need extra energy to feed their young.
  • Nectar Feeders: Perfect for attracting hummingbirds. You can make your own nectar by dissolving 1 part sugar in 4 parts water.
  • Fruit Feeders: Slices of oranges, apples, and grapes can attract orioles, tanagers, and even some woodpecker species.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Stop by our store for an expert opinion for your goals. We’re happy to help you out on your bird-watching journey!

3. Create Natural Habitat Features

In addition to food and water, birds are attracted to backyards that mimic their natural habitat. Planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers not only provides shelter but also natural food sources like berries and insects. Consider leaving a section of your yard a little wild to provide nesting materials and spaces. A pile of leaves or a dead tree can offer invaluable nesting sites and foraging opportunities for birds.

4. Install Nesting Boxes

Putting up nesting boxes is a fantastic way to encourage birds to not only visit but also reside in your backyard. Different species prefer different types of boxes, so research which birds are common in your area and install appropriate nesting boxes for them. Position the boxes in quiet, sheltered areas to provide a safe environment for birds to raise their young.

5. Keep Cats Indoors

Cats are natural predators of birds and can significantly decrease the chances of birds visiting your backyard. Keeping cats indoors, or at least away from bird feeding areas, can help create a safer environment for birds to feed, nest, and bathe.

6. Be Patient and Consistent

One of the most important, but hardest steps! Attracting a variety of wild birds to your backyard can take time and patience. Consistently provide fresh food, water, and maintain the habitat features you’ve created. Over time, birds will start to visit your yard more frequently and in greater numbers.

Creating a bird-friendly backyard is a rewarding experience that brings the beauty of nature right to your doorstep. By offering fresh water, a variety of foods, and natural habitat features, you can enjoy the delightful sight and sounds of wild birds all summer long. Remember, every small step you take can have a big impact on the local bird population, turning your backyard into a thriving wildlife oasis.