How long can chickens stay on start/grow feed?

[jesd]

Our girls are just over 17 weeks now, and I know the switch to layer feed should happen sometime in the next month or so. I think we still have 20-30 lbs of start/grow feed left, and I'd really rather not waste it. Can I keep them on that a bit longer than suggested and offer free choice oyster shells, or am I better of switching them to layer feed around 20 weeks regardless of how much start/grow I have left.

Thanks so much for any advice!

 

[CoyoteMagic]

You can keep them on starter food as long as you like. It won't hurt layers. I personally use Purina SunFresh Flock Raiser and feed it from egg to pot with my chickens, guineas, and quail.

 

[Chris09]

As long as you want to keep feeding it to them..
They will do just fine on it...

Chris

 

[jesd]

Thanks! We'll finish out our start and grow with supplemental oyster shells, then switch whenever we run out. Thanks again!

 

[thebroodybunch]

My chicks are about 10 weeks. Can I start mixing the starter with layer crumble now?

 

[CoyoteMagic]

Nope. Layer has too much calcium for chicks. Need to keep them on starter until they are at least 20 weeks old

 

[luvarabhorses]

All the starter here has antibiotics in it , can't buy unmedicated. What are the implications of keeping everyone, including laying hens on starter? I used to just feed starter since I have a mixed flock but was wondering if I wasn't reaking havoc on the intestinal system?

 

[CoyoteMagic]

Hmmmmm can you get Flock Raiser by Purina?

Those antibiotics are going to be in your eggs too.

 

[missalyshaann]

At my feed store they sell starter crumbles then grower crumbles and then layer feed. When do i switch from starter to grower? And do i mix it or just switch completley?
My chicks are still only 6 weeks..

 

[missalyshaann]