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How to Care for North Texas Wildlife in Late Spring

Wednesday, May 6th, 2026

How to Care for North Texas Wildlife in Late Spring photo of deerAre you wondering how to care for North Texas wildlife in late spring? Late spring here brings rising temperatures and shifting nutritional needs for local wildlife. As animals prepare for the scorching summer, you can help them thrive by providing reliable food, water, and safe shelter.

Provide Essential Food and Water

Natural forage begins to dry out as May turns into June. Supplemental feeding ensures deer and other wildlife maintain healthy body weights and grow strong antlers. Set up high-quality feeding stations across your property and fill them with protein-rich wildlife feed. At J & N Feed and Seed, we carry durable All Seasons Feeders that dispense feed reliably, even during unpredictable spring storms.

Pair these feeders with clean, accessible water troughs to keep the local herd hydrated. Check and clean these water sources weekly to prevent harmful algae buildup before the deep summer heat arrives.

Create Safe Shelter

As animals seek refuge from the climbing heat and heavy rain, safe habitats become critical. You can monitor wildlife health and establish a low-impact presence on your property by installing hunting blinds early in the year. We offer a great selection of hunting blinds right here in Graham, Texas. Placing these structures now lets animals acclimate to them long before hunting season begins.

Take Action Today

Support your local ecosystem now to guarantee a robust wildlife population later. Stop by J & N Feed and Seed at 450 Pecan Street to grab your feeders, blinds, and wildlife management supplies today. Our experts will gladly help you choose the right gear for your property.

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How to Protect Cattle With Weatherproof Supplements

Monday, April 20th, 2026

How to Protect Cattle With Weatherproof Supplements? photo of cattleAre you wondering how to protect cattle with weatherproof supplements? North Texas weather brings unpredictable challenges for your herd. Sudden heavy rain and high winds can quickly ruin your mineral program, leaving your cattle without the vital nutrients they need. You need a reliable way to keep your livestock healthy year-round.

Stop wasting money on loose minerals that wash away or clump up during heavy storms. Purina’s weatherproof cattle supplements solve this problem completely. These advanced formulas resist moisture and wind, ensuring your herd gets consistent nutrition in any weather condition. Consistent mineral intake improves reproduction rates, boosts immune systems, and helps your calves grow faster. J & N Feed and Seed proudly carries these specialized Purina animal nutrition products right here in Graham, Texas.

Proper placement maximizes your supplement investment. Place your mineral tubs or feeders near water sources or shaded areas where your cattle naturally gather. Rotate the feeding locations occasionally to prevent overgrazing in one specific spot. Furthermore, check your feeders weekly to ensure a steady supply and clear out any mud or debris.

Keep your herd strong, regardless of what the unpredictable Texas sky decides to do. Visit J & N Feed and Seed at 450 Pecan Street to find the right Purina weatherproof supplements for your cattle operation. Our local experts will gladly help you build a resilient nutrition plan that works for your specific herd.

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Best Seeds and Fertilizers for Spring Gardening in North Texas

Monday, April 6th, 2026

bermuda grass, pictured here, is one of the Best Seeds and Fertilizers for Spring Gardening in North TexasWhat are some of the best seeds and fertilizers for spring gardening in North Texas? Springhere means it is time to prep your soil and plant your seeds. Choosing the right products makes all the difference for a healthy lawn and thriving garden. This guide helps you pick the perfect seeds and fertilizers for local soil conditions.

Pick the Right Seeds for Texas Heat

North Texas weather demands tough plants. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Buffalo grass thrive here. At J & N Feed and Seed in Graham, we stock over 40 varieties of grass and pasture seed. Whether you need to cover a small backyard or seed a massive grazing pasture, we have exactly what you need to grow a resilient lawn.

Match Fertilizer to Your Soil

North Texas soil often lacks essential nutrients like nitrogen. Applying the right fertilizer gives your plants a strong root system to survive the upcoming summer heat. Test your soil first to see exactly what it needs. Then, apply a high-quality fertilizer to build a solid foundation. Our knowledgeable staff can help you read your soil test and select the best blend.

Practical Spring Gardening Tips

  • Clear the ground: Remove winter debris and early weeds before planting.
  • Water deeply: Encourage deep roots by watering thoroughly rather than frequently.
  • Feed early: Apply fertilizer right after the last spring frost.

Ready to transform your property this spring? Visit J & N Feed and Seed at 450 Pecan Street in Graham, Texas, to grab your seeds, fertilizer, and expert advice today.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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