Starter or layer crumble?

[Patoot]

I'm getting 14 weekers later this week. Should I give them starter or layer? I know there is "grower" crumble for in btwn ages, but the feed stores I called only have starter or layer. What should I feed them? Are there certain brands you like best? Are there non-organic feeds that don't have chemicals and stuff? I know sometimes people food is essentially organic, but not certified so I didn't know if there was something similar in chicken feed. Thanks.

If I have dirt in the backyard, do I need to get them grit?

I don't have to give them oyster shells until they start laying, right?

Should I avoid scratch for now or give it to them and just give them a little?

Total newbie here so I'm learning a lot, but still unsure about things. Thanks so much.

Bree

 

[Silkie-Feet]

with my expirence starter and layer are the same food,
( starter is more finely choped up to make it easyer for the chicks to eat).
but i always got layer ( even for chicks)

 

[cletus the rooster]

give starter/grower until 18 weeks then switch to layer.if they are on dirt they will get their own grit.dont need oyster shell with layer