feeding layers

[sarmartur]

When you feed layers do you feed the ones that hasn't started yet the same food if they are in the same coop. I don't have chickens yet but getting all the information before hand and thanks for answering

Sarah

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I personally don't feed layer anymore, I will leave mine on a non medicated grower or I will switch them to an all flock. In the past if I had young ones mingling with old ones I would put everyone on the grower, than switch back to a layer when everyone was laying, I always have oyster shells available free choice.

 

[dlp40]

I feed , if they are all the same age, layer at the time of the 1st egg. If they are different ages, starter grower-grower finisher- all flock. I have free feed oyster shell with all at all times.

 

[aart]

Agrees with oldhenlikesdogs.

My Feeding Notes: I like to feed a 'flock raiser' 20% protein crumble to all ages and genders, as non-layers(chicks, males and molting birds) do not need the extra calcium that is in layer feed and chicks and molters can use the extra protein. Makes life much simpler to store and distribute one type of chow that everyone can eat.

The higher protein crumble also offsets the 8% protein scratch grains and other kitchen/garden scraps I like to offer. I adjust the amounts of other feeds to get the protein levels desired with varying situations.

Calcium should be available at all times for the layers, I use oyster shell mixed with rinsed, dried, crushed chicken egg shells in a separate container.

Animal protein (mealworms, a little cheese - beware the salt content, meat scraps) is provided during molting and if I see any feather eating.

 

[Folly's place]

I also feed Flock Raiser, oyster shell on the side, and some scratch. They free range and find goodies if the ground's not frozen. Mary

 

[sarmartur]

i am planning to use nutrena naturewise.And could i just use starter and grower until all breeds start laying then get the layers but will get the oyster shell when the start laying
Thanks for answering
Sarah