newbie multi age feed question

[penknee]

So I've got 4 hens that are about 18 wks old, still on a grower til the bag is empty. In about a month I'll have a few more chicks that will be 4 weeks old. they were supposed to be a surprise for my b-day. anyways, my local feedstore doesn't carry a flock raiser. they suggested i use a free range layer/breeder thats 18%. will this be ok for my young girls? I will also have oyster shell available to the older ones. they free range my yard during the day as well.
thanks

 

[Hangin Wit My Peeps]

I wouldn't give the 4 week olds layer feed IMO I would keep them on grower since the hens are getting outside to forage it should be fine for them also. Hopefully this bump will get other opinions for you as well

Good luck!

 

[penknee]

Ya, I thought it was weird of them.
Anyone have any tips? I don't really have to space to feed and house them separately. Should I just continue to feed all the birds grower and off offer oyster shell for the older girls?

 

[dianaross77]

Quote:
That's what I do!

 

[Ridgerunner]

Quote:
If you look at the analysis of nutrient value on the label, the only significant difference between Grower and Layer is the calcium. If you feed them all Grower with oyster shell on the side, you are doing what I do when I have a mixed age flock.