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Tips for Raising Chickens in Winter

Sunday, December 31st, 2023

Raising chickens in winter can be a lot of fun. Some hens love wandering around the yard and their first snow sighting can be quite entertaining. A bird’s thick feathers are a natural protective coat, so most breeds are well-equipped for winter.

Here are a few tips on how to care for chickens in the winter:

1. How to keep chickens warm in winter:

Do not add heat lamps. Chickens, especially cold-tolerant breeds, can withstand winter temperatures without supplemental heat. A chicken’s body temperature is around 106 degrees Fahrenheit, and they have their own protective layer of feathers to keep them warm.

If you feel it is necessary to provide a source of heat, only provide enough heat to raise the temperature a few degrees. The hens will adjust to the cold temperature, but if it is 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the coop and 0 degrees Fahrenheit in the run, birds will not be able to regulate their body temperature.

2. What to feed chickens in winter:

A common myth is to feed oatmeal to birds in the winter. This is not a beneficial treat for chickens. Oats contain some types of fiber that chickens can’t digest which can cause the contents of the digestive tract to thicken. This leads to a reduction in the bird’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients. Greens are also unnecessary. Hens may pick at hay and spread it around, but they are not going to eat it.

Feeding a complete layer feed like Purina® Layena®, Purina® Layena® Plus Omega-3 or Purina® Organic Pellets or Crumbles will provide the necessary nutrition hens need through the winter.

3. Ensure feed and water isn’t frozen.

Consider heated waterers. Feed and water birds more often when it’s below freezing. Energy needs increase in winter. Animals expend a considerable amount of energy to stay warm and will eat more feed. Complete layer feeds include all the energy hens need. The 90/10 rule still applies in winter.

4. Allow exploration.

Birds can tolerate snow, cold air and ice water. There is very little muscle in the lower part of bird legs and feet. The movements are controlled by tendons that stretch from the upper part of the legs down to the toes. \Secondly, the blood entering the lower legs and feet are cooled by the blood returning to the heart. The blood returning is thus warmed by the blood going to the toes. The tissue receives just enough heat to avoid frostbite while also being provided with enough oxygen to keep things functioning.

5. Collect eggs more frequently.

Temperatures below freezing result in frozen eggs. As the egg freezes, the contents expand and will cause the egg to crack.

6. Keep the chicken coop draft free.

But don’t seal it completely. Some air needs to be exchanged to prevent ammonia build up. Open the top vent or higher windows slightly so fresh air can enter and stale air can exit.

7. Keep the chicken coop dry.

Remove any wet spots daily. Provide more bedding than you would in other seasons so birds have a place to burrow and stay cozy.

8. Continue offering activities in the chicken coop.

Hens will spend more time in the coop, so offer enrichment. Logs, sturdy branches or chicken swings can work well and place a Purina® Flock Block® supplement in the coop for a nutritious place to peck.

Visit or call J & N Feed and Seed to get more tips for raising chickens in winter!

Article source: Purina Flock Management

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Holiday Pet Care Tips

Thursday, December 14th, 2023

Dogs in holiday sweatersAs the holidays approach, you might find yourself overwhelmed with shopping, cooking, and traveling plans. With so much going on, it’s easy to overlook your furry friends and their needs. But as a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to keep your pets happy and healthy during the hectic holiday season. Here are some tips to help you make sure your pets are well-fed and taken care of while you’re away.

Hire a Pet Sitter or Ask for Help from a Friend or Family Member
One of the best ways to make sure your pets are well taken care of while you’re away is to hire a pet sitter or ask for help from a family member or friend. A professional pet sitter can check on your pets multiple times a day, feed them, give them water, and let them out for bathroom breaks. They can also provide companionship and playtime to keep your pets happy and engaged. If a pet sitter isn’t in your budget, ask a trusted friend or family member to do pet-sitting for you.

Stick to Their Regular Feeding Schedule
While you’re away, make sure to maintain your pet’s regular feeding schedule. Consistency is essential for keeping your pet happy and healthy. Feed them the same food they eat at home in the same quantity, and make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water. Also, make sure your pet sitter or helper knows about your pet’s feeding pattern.

Provide Your Pet with Plenty of Toys and Accessories
Toys and accessories can help keep your pets happy and entertained. Provide them with toys that they enjoy playing with, including chew toys, puzzle toys, and ball toys. You can also leave your pet with some relaxing music or a cozy blanket to snuggle on, making them feel comfortable and calm while you’re away. Make sure to check on them regularly, even if you are not there personally.

Make Sure Your Pet is Safe and Secure
Keeping your pets safe and secure is essential, especially when you’re not there to supervise them. Make sure your pet sitter or helper knows how to keep your pets safe and secure, including keeping them away from hazards like electrical cords, open flames, and toxic substances. Also, make sure that your pet’s space is secure as well and that they cannot leave their designated area.

Communicate with Your Pet Sitter or Helper
Communication is key to ensuring that your pet is happy and healthy while you’re away. Therefore, make sure you communicate clearly with your pet sitter or helper about your pet’s needs, routines, and health concerns. Leave emergency contact numbers, vet information, and clear instructions to ensure that your pets receive any necessary care.

The holidays can be a hectic time for us pet owners, but with these tips, you can be sure that your pets are well-fed and taken care of while you’re away. By hiring a pet sitter, sticking to your pet’s regular feeding schedule, providing them with plenty of toys and accessories, making sure they are safe and secure, and communicating with your pet sitter and helper, you can ensure that your pet has a happy and healthy holiday season.

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Holiday Pet Safety Tips

Thursday, December 14th, 2023

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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Your Guide to Choosing the Right Seed for Your Needs

Sunday, October 1st, 2023

fall seed

Fall is approaching fast and it’s that time of year again to start preparing for your next planting season. At J&N Feed & Seed, we’ve got you covered for all your fall seed needs. We carry over 40 types of seeds, including wheat, oats, barley, assorted ryegrass seeds such as Elbon and Marshall Rye, and additives such as chicory and buck plot mixes. We cater to all types of seeding needs, be it for livestock grazing, wildlife feed plots, or anything else. Not sure what you need? No worries, our experts are always here to help.

Determine What You Need
Before making any purchases, you need to determine what your needs are. You need to ask yourself questions like, what is the soil type in your area? What is the primary use of the land you are planning seed on? What kind of environment and weather conditions are prevalent in your area? Answering these questions is crucial in determining what kind of seed you need. For instance, Marshall rye is more resilient in extreme weather conditions than other types of ryegrass varieties, making it an ideal choice for colder or drier environments.

Choose the Right Type of Seed
After assessing what your needs are, you need to choose the right type of seed. Our seed collection is broad and diverse, so making the right choice is critical. Different types of seed types have different benefits, and that’s why it’s recommended to consult with our experts before making any purchases. For example, wheat is a versatile seed as it can be used for both grazing and hay purposes. Plus, it is hardy and can withstand harsher temperatures, making it ideal for colder climates.

Consider Additives
Sometimes you might have to combine seed types to best serve your needs. J&N Feed & Seed provides additives that can be used to enhance the productivity of your seed. Additives like chicory and buck plot mixes can help to attract deer and other wildlife to your land, making it a prime location for hunting.

Bagged and Bulk Fertilizers
After you’ve determined your seed needs, you need to prepare your soil for planting. Fertilizers are critical in ensuring that your soil has the right nutrients that your seeds need for growth. At J&N Feed and Seed, we provide bagged and bulk fertilizers, and we even offer free fertilizer buggies to assist in transporting your bulk fertilizer purchases.

Delivery Services
For customers who prefer delivery, we offer delivery services. Give us a call at (940) 549-4631.

Choosing the right seed for your needs is critical in ensuring that your planting season yields fruitful and productive results. That’s why it’s essential to consult our experts at J&N Feed & Seed before making any purchases. Our extensive seed collection, as well as our complementary fertilizers, and delivery services, put us at the forefront of providing excellent customer service and satisfaction. At J&N Feed & Seed, we’re dedicated to offering the very best products to our loyal customers, and we’ll continue to serve you, not only in the fall season but all year round.

 

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Three Tips To Help Molting Chickens

Friday, September 22nd, 2023

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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11 Tips To Beat Heat Stress in Cattle

Monday, July 17th, 2023

Water, shade, and the right nutrition can help mitigate heat stress in cattle. Read our tips for beat heat stress in cattle and keep your herd cool.Water, shade, and the right nutrition can help mitigate heat stress in cattle.

The weather report says it’s going to be a scorcher, and sure enough – the temperatures start steadily climbing. Cattle start grouping in shady spots. A few cows start panting to stay cool. The flies settle in. And, suddenly, you’ve got a herd struggling with heat stress.

The heat may be unavoidable, but you can take proactive steps to mitigate its impact on your herd. First, let’s look at the dangers of heat stress in cattle.

When temperatures rise

Cattle have sweat glands, but it’s not a very efficient way for them to cool off. Instead, they rely on respiration, or opening their mouths and panting, to help them dissipate heat. When it’s 80 degrees or hotter out, their ability to regulate their own temperature becomes a big challenge. You start to see behavior changes – more time in the shade, less time grazing, and increased water consumption.

To make the heat even more challenging:

  • A cow’s rumen activity naturally increases body heat. Fermentation occurs in the rumen, producing heat as bacteria break down and digest forages.
  • Cattle seek shade to help keep cool. Grouping up in the shade sometimes has the reverse effect and creates a lot of radiant heat between cows. The thermometer might read 90 degrees, but the temperature in the middle of the group could be much hotter.
  • Crowded cattle attract more flies, causing animals to move even closer together to protect themselves.
  • Animals with dark hides have a higher risk of suffering heat stress than those with lighter-colored hides.

Suddenly your herd feels overheated and cattle are less likely to graze.

When grazing stops

Forage is the number one nutrition source for cows on pasture. If they aren’t grazing as much during a heatwave, they’re probably not meeting their cattle nutrition requirements.

When cows don’t get adequate nutrition, they’re at risk of:

  • Losing body condition
  • Taking longer to rebreed
  • Producing less milk for their growing calf
  • Generating a weaker immune response to health challenges
  • Long-term fertility consequences

If cattle are too hot to graze, they may also be too hot to consume mineral at target intake levels. If you’re using a fly control mineral and intakes are below target levels, cows no longer benefit from it because they aren’t getting a full dose of fly control.

Curb heat stress in cattle by planning for proper shade, water and the right nutrition program.

11 hot weather tips for cattle

  1. Ensure access to fresh, clean water. A brood cow drinks 25 to 30 gallons of water on a normal day. She’ll drink even more in hot weather.
  2. Check water tanks often to make sure they are clean and free of contamination (algae, feces, organic material, etc.). You might need additional portable tanks to ensure adequate access.
  3. Place water tanks in shaded areas to keep water cool if possible. Keep waterers several feet away from buildings or fences, so cattle can access water from all sides.
  4. Offer supplements to help cows make the most of their forages. Accuration® Supplements with Intake Modifying Technology® help feed necessary rumen microbes to keep cattle eating and encourages snack eating behavior.
  5. Choose a mineral designed for consistent consumption during hot weather, like Purina® Wind and Rain® Summer Season Mineral.
  6. Control flies to prevent further stress and grazing disturbance. Purina® Wind and Rain® Fly Control Mineral contain Altosid® IGR, an insect growth regulator offering a beneficial mode of action to deliver fly control via cattle nutrition. Consider Purina® Wind and Rain® Fly Control Mineral to stop the horn fly life cycle by preventing pupae from developing into biting, breeding adult flies.
  7. Supply ample shade. Whether it’s provided by trees, a manmade building or portable structures, shade is critical. It might be necessary to move cattle to a pasture with trees or additional shade.
  8. Strategically move rotational grazing herds to fresh pastures in the late afternoon/early evening instead of the morning. Cows will have access to fresh grass when temperatures are beginning to cool and will be more likely to graze.
  9. Work cattle as early in the day as possible when temperatures are lower.
  10. Don’t graze pastures short before moving cows to another. Pastures with taller, thicker grass feel cooler than pastures with short grass where more soil surface is exposed.
  11. Observe cattle frequently and take precautions when hot and humid weather is forecast.

Source: Chris Forcherio, Ph.D.
Beef Research Manager

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The Impact of Heat Stress on Deer

Monday, July 17th, 2023

Heat stress on deer can have metabolic and hormonal effects on ruminants that have significant production impacts including reduced feed intake, growth, milk production, and reproduction.Heat stress on deer can have metabolic and hormonal effects on ruminants that have significant production impacts including reduced feed intake, growth, milk production, and reproduction.1 By understanding heat stress, when it occurs, and its impact on deer can help improve management decisions.

Each species has a specific thermoneutral zone (TNZ) where the animal feels comfortable. At temperatures below and above the TNZ, the metabolic rate increases to keep the body warmer or cooler. Due to the increased metabolic rate, a greater amount of energy is needed and therefore negatively impacts health and productivity parameters. The temperature range for the TNZ is also affected by moisture, wind chill, solar radiation, body condition, and hair coat. In white-tailed deer, the transitional hair coat in the fall offered more protection against temperature extremes than the summer coat and results in a larger TNZ.5Heat stress occurs when the temperature or temperature-humidity indices (a combination of ambient temperature and relative humidity) go above the upper critical temperature of the TNZ. For northern white-tailed deer, the upper critical temperature is 68°F during the summer and 77° in the winter.5 See Table 1 for the TNZ of selected cervid species.

White-tailed deer reduce movement, spend more time lying, seek cooler locations, look for shelter from solar radiation, and pant to dissipate heat during heat stress.5 As panting increases, there is an increased risk of rumen acidosis due to a decrease in rumen buffering capacity through increased exhalation of CO2 and loss of saliva by drooling.1 Elk rarely pant, but sweat to cool off.6 Deer under climatic stress, like heat, can have a negative effect on nutritional status at a time when growth, lactation, and antler production occurs. This reduction in productive activity is partly due to reduced feed intake, altered endocrine status, reduced rumination, nutrient absorption, and increased maintenance requirements.1 This results in reduced energy and nutrient availability. If heat stress occurs and results in a negative energy balance just after fawning, there could be an increased risk of metabolic disorders, health problems, decreased milk yield, and reduced reproductive performance.3 Reduced nutrient intake during lactation can also lead to inefficient nitrogen incorporation into microbial proteins in the rumen and loss of amino acids that were mobilized from skeletal muscle.1 Feed conversion efficiency is reduced in part due to increased energy expended to rid the body of excess heat and reduced digestibility of higher fiber forages.4

The goal is to reduce the potential impact of heat stress to keep animals eating and in positive energy balance. One of those management activities could be to provide additional cover in the form of improved habitat, stands of trees, or artificial shade structures.7 Because water is important to help dissipate heat, make sure deer have access to fresh water near every feeder or every 300 acres.7

Through Purina’s deer research program, a patent-pending mixture of plant extracts, Climate Guard® supplement, was identified that support deer during climatic stress events like heat. Climate Guard® supplement has been added to all Purina® AntlerMax® deer feed, except AntlerMax® Deer Mineral and Extreme Energy™ supplement.

Shop J&N Feed and Seed in Graham, Texas, for Purina Climate Guard Supplement. While you are here, ask us about our feeder filling services.
Source: Michael Schlegel, Ph.D., PAS, Dipl. ACAS-Nutrition
Sr. Nutritionist, Wildlife & Small Ruminant Technical Solutions
Table 1. Thermoneutral zones for selected cervid species
                                                         Thermoneutral Zone
Specie SeasonA Lower Critical
temperature, F		 Upper critical
temperature, F		 Reference
White-tailed deer Sp, Su, Fa
Wn		 41
41		 68
77		 1Holter et al., 1975
1Holter et al., 1975
Black-tailed deer Su
Wn		 53.6
21.2		 80.6
64.4		 2Bunnell, 1990
2Bunnell, 1990
Mule deer Su
Wn		 -4
-4		 77
41		 5Paker & Robins, 1984
5Paker & Robins, 1984
Elk Wn -4 68 6Paker & Robins, 1984
ASp=Spring, Su=Summer, Fa=Fall, Wn=Winter

1Bernabucci, U., N. Lacetera, L.H. Baumgard, R.P. Rhoads, B. Ronchi, and A. Nardone. 2010. Metabolic and hormonal acclimation to heat stress in domesticated ruminants. Animal 4:1167-1183.

2Bunnell, F.L. 1990. Ecology of black-tailed deer. In: Deer and Elk Habitats in Coastal Forests of Southern British Columbia, J.B. Nyberg and D.W. Janz, eds. Research Branch, Ministry of Forests, Province of British Columbia, Victoria, pp 31-63.

3Drackley, J.K. 1999. Biology of dairy cows during the transition period: The final frontier? Journal of Dairy Science. 82:2259-2273.

4Fuquay, J.W. 1981. Heat stress as it affects animal production. Journal of Animal Science. 52:164-174.

5Holter, J.B., W.E. Urban, Jr., H.H. Hayes, H. Silver, and H.R. Skutt. 1975. Ambient temperature effects on physiological traits of white-tailed deer. Canadian Journal of Zoology. 53:679-685.

6Parker, K.L., and C.T. Robbins. 1984. Thermoregulation in mule deer and elk. Canadian Journal of Zoology. 62:1409-1422.

7Schreiber, C. 2015. Research suggest south Texas heat impacts deer productivity. Texas Wildlife. August:50-51.

8Silanikove, N. 2000. Effects of heat stress on the welfare of extensively managed domestic ruminants. Livestock Production Science. 67:1-18.

9Tomeček, J.M. and M. Russell, 2016. Managing heat for wildlife on Texas rangelands. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. EWF=034.  Available at:  https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Managing-Heat-for-Wildlife-on-Texas-Rangelands.pdf

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2023 Hunting Season Dates

Wednesday, June 21st, 2023

The dates for the 2023 hunting season have been released by Texas Parks and Wildlife. We have the dates listed below. For more information on the 2023 hunting season calendar, check the Texas Parks and Wildlife site.

Game Animals

Javelina

 
Season Zone Dates
General North Oct. 1, 2023 – Feb. 25, 2024
South Sep. 1, 2023 – Aug. 31, 2024

Mule Deer

 
Season Zone Dates
General Panhandle Nov. 18, 2023 – Dec. 3, 2023
Trans-Pecos Nov. 24, 2023 – Dec. 10, 2023
Archery 59 of 254 counties Sep. 30, 2023 – Nov. 3, 2023

Pronghorn

 
Season Zone Dates
General 41 of 254 counties Sep. 30 – Oct. 15, 2023

Squirrel

 
Season Zone Dates
General East Texas Oct. 1, 2023 – Feb. 25, 2024 & May 1-31, 2024
Other open counties Sep. 1, 2023 – Aug. 31, 2024
Youth-only East Texas Sep. 23 – 24, 2023

White-tailed Deer

 
Season Zone Dates
General North Nov. 4 , 2023- Jan. 7, 2024
South Nov. 4, 2023 – Jan. 21, 2024
Special Late North Jan. 8-21, 2024
South Jan. 22, 2024 – Feb. 4, 2024
Youth-Only North Oct. 28-29, 2023 & Jan. 8-21, 2024
South Oct. 28-29, 2023 & Jan. 8-21, 2024
Archery 252 of 254 counties Sep. 30, 2023 – Nov. 3, 2023
Muzzleloader 90 of 254 counties Jan. 8-21, 2024

Upland Game Birds

Chachalaca

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr & Willacy Counties Oct. 28, 2023 – Feb. 25, 2024

Pheasant

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Panhandle Dec. 2-31, 2023

Quail

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Oct. 28, 2023 – Feb. 25, 2024

Turkey

Rio Grande Turkey

 
Season Zone Dates
Fall North Nov. 4, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024
South Nov. 4, 2023 – Jan. 21, 2024
Brooks, Kenedy, Kleberg & Willacy counties Nov. 4, 2023 – Feb. 25, 2024
Archery-only Sep. 30, 2023 – Nov. 3, 2023
Fall Youth-only North Oct. 28-29, 2023 & Jan. 8-21, 2024
South Oct. 28-29, 2023 & Jan. 22, 2024 – Feb. 4, 2024
Spring North Mar. 30, 2024 – May 12, 2024
South Mar. 16, 2024 – Apr. 28, 2024
One-turkey counties Apr. 1-30, 2024
Spring Youth-Only North Mar. 23-24, 2024 & May 18-19, 2024
South Mar. 9-10, 2024 & May 4-5, 2024

Eastern Turkey

 
Season Zone Dates
Spring East Texas Apr. 22, 2024 – May 14, 2024

Migratory Game Bird

Dove

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular North Sep. 1, 2023 – Nov. 12, 2023 & Dec. 15-31, 2023
Central Sep. 1, 2023 – Oct. 29, 2023 & Dec. 15, 2023 – Jan. 14, 2024
South Sep. 14, 2023 – Oct. 29, 2023 & Dec. 15, 2023 – Jan. 21, 2024
Special White-winged Dove Days South Sep. 1-3, 2023 & Sept. 8-10, 2023

Duck

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular High Plains Mallard Management Unit Oct. 28-29, 2023 & Nov. 3, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
North Nov. 11-26, 2023 & Dec. 2, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
South Nov. 4-26, 2023 & Dec. 9, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
Youth/Veterans High Plains Mallard Management Unit Oct. 21-22, 2023
North Nov. 4-5, 2023
South Oct. 28-29, 2023

Goose

 
Season Zone Dates
Early Canada Goose East Sep. 9-24, 2023
Light & Dark Geese West Nov. 4, 2023 – Feb. 4, 2024
East Nov. 4, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
Light Goose Conservation Order West Feb. 5, 2024 – Mar. 10, 2024
East Jan. 29, 2024 – Mar. 10, 2024

Rails, Gallinules & Moorhens

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Sep. 9-24, 2023 & Nov. 4, 2023 – Dec. 27, 2023

Sandhill Cranes

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular A Oct. 28, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
B Nov. 24, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
C Dec. 16, 2023 – Jan. 21, 2024

Snipe

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Nov. 4, 2023 – Feb. 18, 2024

Teal

 
Season Zone Dates
September Teal Only Statewide Sep. 9-24, 2023

Woodcock

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide Dec. 18, 2023 – Jan. 31, 2024

Other Animals

Alligator

 
Season Zone Dates
General 22 Counties & Special Properties Sep. 10-30, 2023
All Other Counties Apr. 1, 2024 -June 30, 2024

Rabbits and Hares

 
Season Zone Dates
Regular Statewide No closed season

 

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February Garden Tips

Monday, January 30th, 2023

February Garden Tips

February Garden Tips Keep in mind that the average last freeze for North Texas area is not until mid-March. Even so, many plants normally begin to show Keep in mind that the average last freeze for North Texas area is not until mid-March. Even so, many plants normally begin to show signs of growth in February, which makes it the perfect time, to get outside and work in the yard.

Pruning is both an art and a necessary maintenance function. Most trees and shrubs can be lightly pruned at any time; however mid-winter is generally the best time for major pruning.

Summer flowering trees and shrubs should be pruned before buds begin to swell for Spring. Generally they bloom on new growth; examples are crape myrtle, butterfly bush, spiraea and honeysuckle. If those seed heads on crepe myrtles bother you, remove them this month. Just clip back the ends of the branches, do not destroy the beauty of the gracefully sculptured trunks by severe pruning. Please never top a crape myrtle.

Spring flowering plants such as azalea, Carolina jessamine, wisteria, forsythia, and quince should not be pruned until after the blooms are spent.

February is the best time for pruning most roses. Remove any old and diseased canes then cut the remaining canes back by 50%. Make your cuts above a bud that faces away from the center of the plant.

Early to mid-February marks the time to apply a pre-emergent herbicide for lawns. These products kill germinating seed. A second application may be needed in late May or early June. Remember that the best defense against lawn weeds is a healthy, thick turf resulting from good management.

Trim back perennials and ornamental grasses before the new growth appears in Spring. Clean up around plants and mulch well to protect.

Thinking about a spring garden? Look for onion sets and seed potatoes, they arrive early. By planting early, plants will be off to a better start and can become adjusted before the stresses of summer arrive.

Posted in Garden, News & Updates | Comments Off on February Garden Tips

Apply Pre-Emergents for Spring Weed Control

Wednesday, January 25th, 2023

Apply pre emergents for spring weed control. Dandelions weeds.

Regardless of what the groundhog says, spring is right around the corner and it’s time to think about spring weed control.  With the mild winter, we’ve had, it’s time to apply pre-emergent for your yard. You have about a six-week window to apply pre-emergents, from the first of February to the middle of March.  There are three factors that will determine when a seed will germinate: soil temperature, moisture, and sunlight. The pre-emergent must be applied and active BEFORE that magic moment of germination occurs.

At J&N, we’ve got several products we recommend for weed control:

Synthetic Pre-Emergents

Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper – Contain dimension pre-emergent, which provides superior control of crabgrass as well as control or suppression of other listed weeds when applied before they germinate. It also provides post-emergent control of crabgrass only and is effective on crabgrass up to four weeks after it has germinated and emerged. Do not apply this product later than four weeks after crabgrass has germinated. The12# bag covers 3,000 sq ft and the 35# bag that covers 10,000 square feet.

A-Vert Plus Lawn Food 18-0-12 –  Contains Gallery and Team, pre-emergent herbicides for control of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in established home lawns. Apply only twice per year for effective dandelion and crabgrass control. A 12lb bag covers up to 2,000 square feet.

Weed Free Zone – Controls over 80 of the toughest-to-control broadleaf weeds including Clover, Ground Ivy, Spurge, Chickweed, Dandelion, Henbit, Oxalis, Poison Ivy, Purslane, Shepherds Purse, Thistle, Virginia Buttonweed, Wild Onion and many others listed on the label. Formulated for cooler weather, it’s a great first application of the season pre-emergent.

Organic Pre-Emergent

Corn Gluten Meal – An all-natural option for weed control is corn gluten meal. It is available in both granulated and powder form and it is applied at a rate of 20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

The key to success with these products is to apply the correct amount to your lawn.  Follow the label directions and know the square footage of your lawn.

 

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