When can chicks

[Poultrybonkers]

Chicks start eating layer feed? My youngest I got june 1st how old do they have to be?

 

[yakibert]

According to the most information I have seen, it should be a month before they start laying but no earlier than 18 weeks.

 

[sumi]

Some say 16 weeks, some say wait until they start laying and some say 18-20 weeks. I'd suggest waiting until they are about 18 weeks old.

 

[FirewifeJess]

I've read to wait until they start laying, or if you can't wait (for some odd reason), then 18 weeks. It also depends on the brand of feed you're using. Read the labels, they know what they're talking about!
Purina: 0-16 weeks, use chick starter/grower
16+ weeks: layer

Scratch & Peck: starter 0-8 weeks
grower: 8-16 weeks
layer: 16+ weeks

Get the drift? Just read the labels and you'll be fine

 

[bobbi-j]

Next time you go buy feed, read the labels on the bags. That will tell you all you need to know.

 

[ONSTAD1]

What? Read a label and not post the same question for the 300th time? Go on...

 

[BullChick]

Purina Layena says 18 weeks, not 16. The point is still the same, the age is on the back of the bag. If you have a mixed flock (which WILL eventually happen) it is still recommended that you feed the grower/finisher, but offer a dish of oyster shells for the layers.
Don't worry about re-posting a question. It happens. We all do it at one time or another. Especially since "when to start feeding ..." can also be "is my flock too young for ..."
Happy chick raising!