Starter Feed vs. Grower Feed
Starter and grower feeds exist because young birds need different support before they become laying hens.
Starter feed
Starter feed is for early chick growth. Follow the product label and do not assume adult feed is close enough.
Grower feed
Grower feed bridges the period after the chick stage and before laying. Some products combine starter and grower.
Layer feed timing
Do not move young birds to layer feed too early just because the bag is convenient.
Common mistakes
- Feeding layer feed to chicks.
- Ignoring the directions on the bag.
- Changing feed abruptly without a reason.
- Letting feed get damp in brooders or storage.
- Forgetting that grit needs depend on what birds are eating.