Feeding question - multiple ages

[Molly_MacD]

You can still feed the grower. It is similar to some all flock feeds. You still need the shells on the side. I believe some feed that regularly to their laying hens.

Ok - that's great, So I can just use what I have until all are ready for layer feed (about 18 weeks right?) With shells or oyster grit on the side.

 

[Brooks_]

Ok - that's great, So I can just use what I have until all are ready for layer feed (about 18 weeks right?) With shells or oyster grit on the side.

If you keep calcium on the side, you never "have to" switch to layer feed.

 

[NatJ]

Ok - that's great, So I can just use what I have until all are ready for layer feed (about 18 weeks right?) With shells or oyster grit on the side.

Layer feed is optional.

You can feed grower plus oyster shell/eggshells for their entire life if you want.

Or you can switch them to layer feed when they are actually laying.

The only special thing about layer feed is the amount of calcium: about right for laying hens, but too much for chickens that are not laying. So it's especially bad for chicks (young and not laying), and not good for roosters or molting hens or broody hens either (being adults, they do not show problems as quickly as chicks do, but they still do not need the extra calcium if they are not laying eggs.)

 

[Molly_MacD]

This is great info!! Thanks everyone.

 

[kerbotx]

I'm not sure I can find oyster shells here... supply issue, but what if I baked/ground egg shells would that work?

I don't know if this is available in Canada, but Walmart sells a small bag of chipped oyster shell online:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Vibrant-Life-Poultry-Oyster-Shells-5-lbs/796742456
My girls love it.