Feeding Heavy breeds (not meat birds)-- keep on starter feed for longer?

[CAjerseychick]

Hi all had a query which does not seem to be on the label of the Bag-- I am feeding Purina Start and Grow and it says to feed til 18 weeks (well actually I realize I should be on Flockraiser, which I will switch to once out of this bag) and then switch to Layena (after either Flockraiser or Start and Grow)-- but I have Jersey Giants and I know they will not be at Point of Lay at 18 weeks besides which it will be Oct/Nov by then and unlikely for them to start laying mid winter right? So should I just wait til Spring to start the Layena?
I did read somewhere to keep their protein levels high which is what both the starter feeds have.....Any input would be appreciated, thanks...

 

[galanie]

Keep them on starter (non medicated) or grower (essentially the same thing) till they lay. Yes, JG's need much longer to mature than layer breeds and need that extra protien. In fact I never feed layer at all to my Orpingtons, they get grower or finisher with calcium on the side.

 

[CAjerseychick]

Keep them on starter (non medicated) or grower (essentially the same thing) till they lay. Yes, JG's need much longer to mature than layer breeds and need that extra protien. In fact I never feed layer at all to my Orpingtons, they get grower or finisher with calcium on the side.

O great thanks so much for the feedback, that is what my gut was telling me!