Feeding Mixed Age Flock

[LAS1315]

Hi! I am getting my newest chicks next week! I have 6 hens about to turn 1 year old. I plan to introduce my chicks to the flock at about a month old. My plan was to switch the whole flock to Nutrena's grower feed and supplement with oyster shell for the big girls.

My question is about switching to LAYER feed. My new girls are mixed breeds - some start laying at 16 weeks and others starting at 20+ weeks (marans). Will those girls be ok getting layer feed earlier or should I wait until the LAST chicken starts laying?

 

[Debbie292d]

I would keep them on grower until the last girl starts laying.

That's healthy for them all!

The other idea is an all-flock, which is for chicks and chickens. We use Kalmbach's Flock Maker for brand new chicks to the adults. The hens get oyster shell.