Switching from Grower to Layer Feed

[capebird]

My 4 BR hens are 18 weeks old and not laying yet. I've always fed them Nutrena Naturewise Crumble feed
non-medicated. The instructions on the bag say to switch over to layer feed when the
hens turn to 16 weeks. Everything I've read on here says not to go to layer feed until
the hens actually start laying as the lesser protein levels and higher calcium can cause
issues with the kidneys and liver.......
so my question is... I am just about out of my current bag of Crumble feed (which is also
advertised as a "grower" feed). Rather than buy another bag of crumbles (since they are NOT
laying yet).... would it be safe, would it be okay to now, put them on Layer Feed?
Thanks

 

[groundpecker]

I continue to feed starter/grower until i see the first egg layed by any hen. Then i switch them to layer feed. you can always mix the grower with the layer feed if they start to lay, to use the rest of the feed.

 

[JodyJo]

I am still feeding grower/starter, I have 3 15 week old pullets not laying yet, so I still feed this to my older girls who are all laying...I offer oyster shell on the side...I will mix the Layer Feed with what grower/starter I have left when the younger ones start laying...my eggs are strong and tasty...so no harm done. I would suggest you continue till you see an egg...should be 2-3 weeks for you depending on breeds...none of mine laid before 20 weeks

**sorry I did not read you were almost out of starter....go ahead and switch, they will be fine...

 

[Fred's Hens]

You can go either way. I don't agree with the 16 week recommendation (over generalized), as some breeds just won't lay until 22-24 weeks. Your BRs at 18+ weeks are fine either way. I'd not worry about it. Do whatever is convenient for you.