Feeding Pullets of different ages

[jahphotogal]

I have five chickens - 3 are now about 12 weeks old, the other 2 are 9 weeks old (about.) When the older ones start laying, can I switch them all to layer feed? Or should I try to get starter/grower to the younger ones? (They all live together.)

 

[Fred's Hens]

You can follow the Feed Chart of your feed maker. Here's Blue Seal's, but they are all similar.http://www.blueseal.com/poultry/feedprg.php

For a mixed flock, just keep them on what you are feeding them now, until everyone is 17 weeks of age. If you wish, provide your older layers some calcium source, on the side, when they begin to lay. Don't be too surprised that none of them seem too interested in actually eating the calcium (shells, etc).

Once everyone is 17 weeks old, you may indeed put the entire flock on layer for your convenience. Layer isn't anything special. It is just regular feed with 5% calcium ground right in, that's all.

 

[jahphotogal]

Thanks - I'll see if Tractor Supply has calcium!

 

[Fred's Hens]

They do. Oyster shells. Usually up on a shelf above the chicken feed.

 

[jahphotogal]

thanks!!