What is the difference between starter/grower vs grower/finisher?

[wolfbaine30]

We have half a 55lb bag of starter/grower and our RIR chicks are at the age for grower/finisher.I would like to know if it would hurt them to finish this bag off or if we need to get the other.Thanks for any info.
Kevin

 

[WoodlandWoman]

I'd use it up. Some people use a starter with a higher protein content and then switch them to a grower with a little less protein. These days, a lot of people are using a starter/grower straight through. The combo starter/grower products don't have as high a protein content as a strictly starter product would have.

So, I'd just use it up.

 

[greenfamilyfarms]

Protein content is the first difference. Compare the tags on the bottoms of the bags.

 

[digitS']

Kevin, having the higher-protein ration can be thought of as an excuse for giving those birds more healthy treats.

They may also be getting some on their own if they are allowed some free-ranging.

It always seems to me that it is better for the backyard chicken person to purchase higher protein rather than lower for those reasons: low protein free-ranging on grass, enjoying garden veggies, kitchen scraps, and scratch

.

Steve

 

[countrybum]

I give the medicated starter for the first 2 months and then mix in the new feed a little at a time for the next month. From there they are on the adult feed and get put in with the flock.

Keep them on the medicated for awhile longer. Young chicks are very susceptible to disease, especially coccidosis, which is a big killer of baby chicks.