Q.Pigs & Poultry
How do I raise heritage turkeys for Thanksgiving?
A.
Order poults in late spring (May-June) to reach 12-25 lb butcher weight by Thanksgiving (24-28 weeks for heritage breeds; 14-16 weeks for Broad Breasted Bronze/White). Feed turkey-specific starter (28% protein) for first 8 weeks, then grower (20-24%) to finish. Heritage breeds require longer growing time but produce superior flavor.
Livestock-breeds pages cover heritage turkey breeds.