Feeding a mixed flock

[Dunakyn Woods]

I have a small homestead and I have raised hens for eggs for about ten years but I would like to start raising chickens for meat. I am looking at getting about 30 or 40 dual purpose heritage breed chickens (not sure exactly which variety yet) and my thought was that I would raise them to maturity and then keep 10 or so hens for eggs and process the rest.

My question is, what should I feed this flock while they are growing? I know that broiler feed is higher in protein and not necessarily great for layers, so should I just feed them all layer feed? I don't really care if the meat birds take longer to get big. They will also be free ranging if that matters.

Any insight would be great!

 

[FrostRanger]

Broiler feed is perfectly fine for layers. If anything they'll benefit from the extra protein too. Just have crushed oyster shell on the side for anyone laying and you'll be fine

 

[Folly's place]

An all-flock feed, with oyster shell in a separate dish for the actively laying hens. For example, the 20% protein Purina Flock Raiser, or something similar that's fresh at the stores where you shop.
Mary

 

[Dunakyn Woods]

Broiler feed is perfectly fine for layers. If anything they'll benefit from the extra protein too. Just have crushed oyster shell on the side for anyone laying and you'll be fine

Thank you!

 

[Dunakyn Woods]

An all-flock feed, with oyster shell in a separate dish for the actively laying hens. For example, the 20% protein Purina Flock Raiser, or something similar that's fresh at the stores where you shop.
Mary

Thank you!