Feeding hens grower/all flock feed instead of layer?

[minou33]

I have a flock of all hens. They are 19 weeks and none are laying. I'm weighing the pros and cons of keeping them on grower feed with oyster shells instead of switching them over entirely to layer feed once they start to lay. Is there a reason why I shouldn't do this? I know this is common for mixed flocks.

 

[LaFemmeKatia]

I see no reason not to. It’s the same as All Flock Feed with a side of oyster shells.

 

[MilesFluffybutt]

When I had hens I fed All Flock and offered oyster shell on the side. I can't say I noticed a difference in shell quality.

 

[M Brennen]

What age should they be getting oyster shells? Before or after they start laying?

 

[minou33]

What age should they be getting oyster shells? Before or after they start laying?

I began giving it to them free choice at 16 weeks in case any of them needed it before they start to lay. I have leghorns who sometimes lay as early as 14 weeks.