Transition food for hens vs cockerels

[rehdancer]

OK folks, I've about decided that more pure-bred chickens are in my future, rather than the Heinz 57 I've got now. But in the meantime:
My 7-wk old chickens are nearing the end of their grower feed. One poster here suggested feeding them one bag of starter, then when that's about empty transition them over to grower, then to layer, which is what makes sense to me (depending on how many chickens are eating how large a bag).
But what about the boys? If I decide to keep one, can he eat the layer ration too? I can't see myself being able to maintain separate feed, and I'd be surprised if anyone's doing that. The layer ration I bought today has oyster shell and grit already in it (I think it's Purina Layena) and looks to be a complete feed for layers.
Also, I was told by a local person that after about 9 wks the meat of the cockerels will be rubbery, but is that just for broilers?
My breed mix is Giant Cochin, Barred Rock, California White, and Giant Leghorn. TIA, as usual, knowing I'll get sound advice from those who know more than I do

 

[Lady of McCamley]

Put them all on all flock. Oyster shell side dish for laying hens. Make it easy.
I've raised mixed flock on that. This year I had such a staggering of chicks hatching under broodies, that I didn't even get chick feed....and the chicks are fine.

LofMc

 

[GC-Raptor]

My 7-wk old chickens are nearing the end of their grower feed.

The layer ration I bought today has oyster shell and grit already in it (I think it's Purina Layena) and looks to be a complete feed for layers.

Best to follow directions on the feed tag on the bottom of bag.
Here are directions from Purina Layena plus. When I used to feed a Layers feed.

As far as Cockerels, many feed them a layers feed when they switch the pullets over.
Some feed a All-Flock/Flock Raiser or a Non-Medicated Starter Grower to all ages with a container of Oyster Shells separately for the Layers. GC

 

[blackdog043]

I feed 20% non medicated starter grower all the time, with oyster shell in a separate container.

The choice is yours, but if you want to make it easy on yourself, feed an All Flock / Flock Raiser or Non Medicated Starter Grower. Provide oyster shell in a separate container. You will never have to change feed again. Check out the protein and calcium on each, that's the main difference.

 

[Blooie]

I totally agree with @Lady of McCamley. Worrying about all this age/ gender/producing stuff is just not necessary. I buy one small bag of Starter for new chicks, simply because the crumble is smaller and easier for them to learn to eat. When that bag is gone they get exactly what the adults get. I feed my entire mixed flock - roosters, assorted ages of chicks, layers and freeloaders the same food.....either All Flock or Grower, whichever my ‘local’ feed store has in stock or whichever has the freshest date on the bag. It’s a 50 mile drive one way to my feed store, so I’m not picky about which one they get because I’m not driving all the way back another day. I provide oyster shell on the side in a separate container for the layers.

My flock is healthy with tight, glossy feathers, they are active, and there have been zero issues with egg numbers, quality, or shell harness. Make it easy on yourself whenever you can. It’s easy to overthink and get stressed out unless we find ways to simplify their care without sacrificing their health.