From the things I've read, chickens are first fed starter, then grower, then layer feeds. Some places suggest feeding only layer feed, (when the age of the bird is appropriate) and not feeding grower feed at all. I'm confused. I've also looked around town for grower feed but all I can seem to find is layer feed. I have Columbian Wyandottes, Barred Rock and Easter Eggers. Can someone clear this up for me please?
The extra calcium in layer can cause chicks problems later in life if they're started on it too young. I feed my flock gamebird feed (plenty of protien for growing youngsters) and keep oyster shell out free choice so the laying hens can meet their calcium needs.
Grower is a lower protein ration. It's used to prevent pullets from maturing too soon as compared to using Starter (high protein) only. I generally mix whole oats with Starter to get a protein level of about 17%. Starting at 10 to 12 weeks, ending at first egg. For a couple of flocks I went with Starter only to maturity and saw no ill-effects in either health or egg production. Starter is necessary. Layer is necessary. Grower not so much. It's perishable, not required, and not a big seller, so many Feedstores won't bother to carry it. Can't get it here either. spot
