Raising backyard chickens can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re doing it for fresh eggs, meat production, or simply the joy of caring for your flock. One of the most critical aspects of raising healthy chickens is ensuring they receive the proper nutrition at each stage of life. Among the key feeding milestones, the transition from starter to grower feed plays a pivotal role in developing strong, productive birds. But how long do you feed chicks grower feed? This question is essential for any poultry keeper—novice or experienced—and the answer depends on breed type, intended purpose (layers vs. meat birds), and growth rates.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the grower phase of a chicken’s life, explain why grower feed is important, determine the ideal length of time to use it, and provide practical feeding tips for optimal flock development.
Understanding Chicken Feed Stages: Starter, Grower, and Finisher
Before answering how long to feed grower to chicks, it’s crucial to understand the different life stages and corresponding feed types. Chickens require varying nutritional profiles as they grow—especially in protein content, vitamins, and minerals.
The Starter Feed Phase (0–6 Weeks)
From hatch to approximately 6 weeks old, chicks require starter feed. This specialized feed typically contains 18–24% protein, essential for supporting rapid early growth and feather development.
- High protein supports organ and muscle development.
- Finely ground texture is easy for small beaks to consume.
- Formulated for young digestive systems.
Starter feed is available in crumble or mash form, which helps prevent choking. During this stage, it’s important to always provide fresh water and maintain clean feeders to prevent contamination.
The Grower Feed Phase (6–14 or 20 Weeks)
At around 6 weeks of age, chicks begin to outgrow the nutritional needs met by starter feed. This is when grower feed comes into play. Typically lower in protein (14–16%) than starter feed, grower feed supports steady, balanced growth without overstimulating early sexual development, especially in layer pullets.
Switching to grower feed at the right time is vital. Premature or delayed transitions can cause growth issues, digestive problems, or premature egg-laying in young hens.
The Finisher/Layer Feed Phase (18+ Weeks for Layers, Earlier for Broilers)
Once pullets approach maturity (around 18–20 weeks), they’re typically transitioned to layer feed, which contains added calcium to support strong eggshell formation. Broiler chickens, raised for meat, follow a different nutritional timeline and often move to a finisher feed sooner.
How Long Do You Feed Chicks Grower Feed? The Standard Timeline
The typical duration for feeding grower feed is from 6 weeks of age until approximately 18 to 20 weeks. However, this timeline can vary depending on your birds’ breed and intended use.
For Layer Pullets: 6 to 18 or 20 Weeks
If you’re raising chickens primarily for egg production, keep them on grower feed until they’re close to point-of-lay—about 18 weeks of age. This allows their bodies to mature internally before beginning the high-energy process of laying.
Introducing layer feed while birds are still growing too rapidly or before their reproductive systems are ready can lead to:
- Reproductive tract damage due to oversized eggs.
- Kidney issues from excessive calcium intake.
- Reduced lifespan and long-term laying performance.
A useful rule of thumb: don’t switch to layer feed until your pullets are at least 18 weeks old or you see the first eggs. Even then, transition gradually over 5–7 days to prevent digestive upset.
For Broiler Chickens: 6 to 8 Weeks (Varies by Strain)
Meat birds, such as Cornish Cross, grow significantly faster than layers. Their nutritional needs differ:
- They require high-protein feed through the starter phase.
- Many commercial broiler operations use starter feed for the first 3 weeks, then switch to grower/finisher feed.
- Typically, broilers are harvested between 6–9 weeks, depending on target size.
Because of their accelerated growth cycle, broilers may only be on grower feed for a short period—or they might transition straight from starter to finisher (meat-producing) feed. Consult your feed provider or hatchery guidelines to determine the ideal feeding program for your specific strain.
For Dual-Purpose and Heritage Breeds: 6 to 20 Weeks
Dual-purpose breeds (like Plymouth Rocks, Orpingtons, or Sussex) and slower-growing heritage birds have a longer development cycle. These chickens benefit from extended time on grower feed—up to 20 weeks—because they mature more slowly than commercial hybrids.
Feeding these breeds layer feed too early can lead to long-term health problems. Patience pays off—allow them time to develop strong bones and frames before the demands of egg laying begin.
What Is Grower Feed, and Why Is It Different?
Grower feed is a transitional diet designed to support growing juvenile chickens after the starter phase. It strikes a balance between the high protein of starter feed and the calcium-rich formulation of layer feed.
Key Nutritional Differences
| Feed Type | Protein Content | Calcium Content | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | 18–24% | 0.8–1.0% | Rapid growth, early development |
| Grower | 14–16% | 0.6–0.9% | Balanced growth, pre-lay development |
| Layer | 16–18% | 3.0–4.0% | Support consistent egg production |
Lower protein in grower feed helps moderate growth velocity, allowing skeletal and organ systems to catch up. Excess protein early in development can lead to leg issues and excessive fat deposition, particularly in laying breeds.
Calcium levels in grower feed are intentionally kept low to prevent strain on young kidneys and avoid premature calcification. Layer feed’s high calcium content, while necessary for egg production, can be harmful to chickens that aren’t yet laying.
Additional Components in Grower Feed
- Vitamins A, D, E, and B-complex support immune function and metabolic processes.
- Phosphorus and other trace minerals aid in bone development.
- No added coccidiostats (in organic versions) important if you’re raising organic birds or have concerns about medication.
Many modern grower feeds are supplemented with ingredients like probiotics, prebiotics, or amino acids to enhance gut health and nutrient absorption.
Signs It’s Time to Switch Feeds
Knowing when to transition your birds to the next feeding stage is just as important as knowing how long to keep them on grower feed. Watch for both chronological age and physical developmental signs.
Chronological Indicators
- Pullets are 16–18 weeks old.
- Meat birds reach target market weight.
- Chicks have completely molted their baby down and grown adult feathers.
Breed-specific maturity timelines matter. For example, Leghorns may start laying at 18 weeks, while Orpingtons or Ameraucanas might not lay until 22 weeks.
Physical and Behavioral Signs
- Appearance of combs and wattles—These should become larger, brighter red, and fully developed.
- Increased body size—Chicks should resemble small adult chickens.
- Interest in nesting areas—Even before laying, pullets may begin to explore nesting boxes.
- Crowing and mating behavior—Roosters will often begin crowing and exhibiting male behaviors.
- First eggs—The most definitive sign that lay cycle is beginning.
While the first egg typically signals readiness for layer feed, it’s still advisable to delay the full switch for a week or two if birds are younger than 18 weeks to ensure internal maturity is sufficient.
What Happens If You Feed Grower Feed Too Long?
While grower feed is safe for longer periods than starter, prolonging its use beyond 20 weeks into the laying phase can create nutritional deficiencies.
Lack of Calcium
Without adequate calcium, laying hens may suffer from:
- Soft-shelled or shell-less eggs.
- Weak bones (resulting in fractures or “cage layer fatigue”).
- Reduced egg production.
Grower feed typically contains less than 1% calcium—far below the 3–4% needed to produce healthy eggshells consistently.
Protein Imbalance
Although grower feed offers balanced protein for growth, long-term use may limit amino acid availability needed for consistent egg quality and yolk development. Layer feeds are optimized not just for shell strength, but for egg composition and feather condition.
The Risk of Delayed Maturity
In rare cases, delaying the transition too long—especially in faster-maturing birds—can inadvertently disrupt hormonal signaling related to egg production. However, this is less common than the risks related to calcium deficiency.
Can You Extend Grower Feeding for Specific Reasons?
Yes—under certain circumstances, extending grower feed use beyond the typical timeline may be beneficial.
For Late-Maturing Breeds
Heirloom breeds and non-commercial flocks often begin laying later (22–28 weeks). In these cases, continuing grower feed until week 20 or even 22 is acceptable and often recommended.
Example: A heritage Barred Plymouth Rock might not show signs of lay until 24 weeks. Feeding her grower until 20 weeks, then transitioning to layer, supports a smoother onset of egg production.
If Birds Are Showing Health Issues
Chickens that suffered illness, parasite infestation, or malnutrition early in life may not be developmentally ready for layer feed at 18 weeks. Keeping them on grower feed for longer—while monitoring weight and physical changes—can give them time to recover.
Make sure to consult a poultry veterinarian if delayed maturity is due to illness.
For Non-Laying Flocks (Meat Birds, Roosters)
Roosters and non-laying flocks should never be fed layer feed. High calcium can lead to kidney damage in males. Instead, options include:
- Continued grower feed.
- Finisher feed (for broilers).
- Specially formulated rooster ration (calcium-free).
For backyard flocks with roosters, many owners keep all birds on a similar ration and provide oyster shell separately for hens that lay eggs.
Feeding Tips During the Grower Phase
Maximizing the benefits of the grower phase requires not just feeding the right diet, but doing so with proper husbandry practices.
Feed Access and Feeder Management
- Use feeders designed for larger juvenile birds.
- Keep feed fresh by avoiding moisture buildup and refilling daily.
- Prevent waste by adjusting feeder height and using treadle feeders for older birds.
Water Availability
Water intake should be 2–3 times higher than feed consumption. Always provide clean, fresh water—dehydration during rapid growth can stunt development and reduce long-term productivity.
Supplemental Feeding and Treats
During the grower phase, treats like vegetables, mealworms, or scratch grains should be limited to no more than 10% of the total diet. Too many treats dilute essential nutrients and can lead to nutritional imbalances.
Ideal treats for grower birds include:
- Cooked eggs (excellent for protein).
- Leafy greens (kale, spinach).
- Diced fruits (apples, berries).
- Foraged vegetation (if safe and pesticide-free).
Avoid feeding moldy food, salty snacks, or avocado, which are toxic to chickens.
Monitoring Weight and Health
Use a flock scale to monitor weight trends. Sudden weight loss or insufficient gain may signal disease, nutritional deficiency, or parasite load.
Signs of healthy grower birds include:
- Smooth, shiny feathers.
- Alert alertness and curiosity.
- Regular droppings and consistent appetite.
- No labored breathing or nasal discharge.
Myths About Chicken Feed Transitions
Misinformation about chicken feeding is widespread. Let’s debunk some common myths related to grower feed and transitions.
Myth: Chicks Can Stay on Starter Feed Forever
False. Keeping chicks on starter past 6 weeks risks excessive protein intake, which can contribute to kidney strain, leg deformities, and early onset of lay with weak shells. Always transition to grower at the proper time.
Myth: You Should Switch to Layer Feed as Soon as a Chick Starts Laying
While it may seem logical, switching immediately when the first egg appears can be harmful—especially if the bird is under 18 weeks old. Wait a week or until the hen reaches the recommended age before fully transitioning.
Myth: All Chickens Mature at the Same Rate
Breeds vary significantly in growth speed. Industrial hybrids like ISA Browns mature early; heritage breeds take longer. Generalized advice of “switch at 18 weeks” may not suit all flocks. Always consider breed, nutrition, and health when making decisions.
Conclusion: Tailoring Grower Feed Duration to Your Flock
In answer to the original question: you typically feed chicks grower feed from 6 weeks until 18 to 20 weeks of age, with adjustments based on breed, purpose, and individual development.
To summarize:
- Switch from starter to grower at 6 weeks.
- Feed grower until 18 weeks for early-laying hybrids.
- Extend to 20 weeks (or slightly beyond) for slower-maturing breeds.
- Broilers may transition earlier or skip grower depending on program.
- Never feed layer feed to birds under 18 weeks unless laying has begun and the bird is mature.
Proper feeding during the grower phase ensures strong skeletal development, healthy immune systems, and optimal readiness for egg production or market weight. By understanding your flock’s needs and monitoring their progress, you’ll support a thriving, productive, and long-lived backyard poultry operation.
Nutrition is the foundation of flock health—don’t underestimate the power of timing. Feeding the right feed, at the right stage, for the right amount of time, sets your chickens up for a lifetime of success. Whether you’re raising a few backyard layers or managing a larger flock, make the grower phase a priority in your chicken care plan.
When should I start feeding chicks grower feed instead of starter feed?
Chicks should be transitioned from starter feed to grower feed typically around 6 to 8 weeks of age. This timeframe aligns with their developmental stage, during which their growth rate begins to slow down and their nutritional needs shift. Starter feed is higher in protein (usually 20–24%) to support rapid growth and development in the first few weeks, while grower feed has a lower protein content (approximately 16–18%) that better matches the needs of birds past the brooding phase.
It’s important to monitor your chicks’ development and breed-specific growth patterns, as some fast-growing breeds may require an earlier switch, while smaller or slower-growing breeds may stay on starter feed closer to 8 weeks. Begin the transition gradually by mixing grower feed with starter feed over a period of 5–7 days to prevent digestive upset. This ensures a smooth change in diet while supporting ongoing healthy development.
How long should I continue feeding grower feed to my chickens?
Grower feed should be fed to chickens from approximately 6 to 8 weeks of age until they are about 18 to 20 weeks old, just before they begin laying eggs. This stage is crucial for the development of strong bones, muscles, and organ systems in preparation for adulthood. The duration can vary slightly depending on the breed and growth rate—larger breeds may need a bit more time on grower feed before transitioning to layer feed.
Once hens begin producing eggs, typically around 18–22 weeks, it’s important to switch to layer feed, which contains higher levels of calcium to support eggshell formation. Continuing grower feed beyond this point may result in calcium deficiencies and soft-shelled eggs. Roosters and non-laying hens can remain on grower feed longer or be switched to maintenance feed, depending on their activity level and nutritional requirements.
What is the difference between starter, grower, and layer feed?
Starter, grower, and layer feeds are formulated to meet the distinct nutritional demands of chickens at different life stages. Starter feed, used from hatch to about 6–8 weeks, contains 20–24% protein, essential for rapid muscle and skeletal development. It is often in crumble form for easier consumption by young chicks.
Grower feed, fed from 6–8 weeks to 18–20 weeks, contains 16–18% protein and is lower in calcium than layer feed, supporting continued growth without overloading the developing bird’s system. Layer feed, designed for laying hens, includes 15–17% protein and a higher calcium content (around 3–4%) to aid in strong eggshell production. Using the correct feed at each stage ensures optimal health, growth, and productivity.
Can I feed grower feed to adult laying hens?
Grower feed should not be fed to adult laying hens as their primary diet because it lacks sufficient calcium for egg production. While grower feed provides adequate protein for growth and maintenance, the calcium levels are too low to support consistent eggshell formation. Hens on a grower-only diet may begin laying eggs with thin or soft shells, increasing the risk of breakage and health issues such as egg binding.
Laying hens require a specialized layer feed that includes added calcium, often in the form of crushed oyster shell or limestone. Some poultry keepers may mix a small amount of grower feed with layer feed for non-laying flock members to balance nutrients across the flock. However, for peak egg production and long-term hen health, a complete layer ration is strongly recommended once pullets start laying.
Is it okay to mix grower feed with treats or supplements?
Yes, you can offer occasional treats or supplements alongside grower feed, but they should not exceed 10% of the total diet. Vegetables, fruits, and scratch grains can provide variety and enrichment for your growing birds, but too many treats can dilute nutrient intake and lead to imbalances. Always ensure that grower feed remains the primary source of nutrition during this critical growth phase.
Some supplements, such as probiotics or grit, can be beneficial—especially if your chicks are free-ranging or consuming foods other than feed. Grit helps with digestion of whole grains and insoluble materials, while probiotics may support gut health. However, avoid unnecessary protein or calcium supplements unless advised by a veterinarian, as grower feed is already formulated to meet developmental needs.
Do all chicken breeds require the same length of time on grower feed?
No, not all chicken breeds require the same duration on grower feed. Fast-growing meat breeds, such as Cornish Cross, may transition more quickly through the starter and grower phases, often needing specialized broiler diets instead of standard grower feed. On the other hand, heritage or slow-growing breeds, like Orpingtons or Rhode Island Reds, may benefit from staying on grower feed closer to 20 weeks to support steady growth and development.
Additionally, dual-purpose breeds (raised for both meat and eggs) will follow a grower feeding timeline aligned with their shift to egg production. Monitoring weight, feather development, and overall health helps determine the right time to make the transition. Consulting breed-specific guidelines or a poultry nutritionist can provide more tailored advice for different breeds.
Can I use organic grower feed for my chicks?
Yes, organic grower feed is a suitable option for raising chicks, especially if you’re aiming to produce organic eggs or meat. Organic grower feeds meet the same nutritional standards as conventional feeds, with protein levels around 16–18%, but they are made from certified organic ingredients and do not contain synthetic additives, pesticides, or GMOs. They also exclude animal by-products, which are not typically included in chick feeds anyway.
When using organic grower feed, ensure it is labeled for the appropriate growth stage and comes from a reputable supplier. Keep in mind that organic feed may be more expensive and sometimes harder to find. However, it supports a more natural rearing approach and can be beneficial for backyard flocks where feed quality and sourcing are top priorities for the keeper. Always provide clean water and proper housing alongside high-quality feed for best results.