Deer plot food is the key to attracting and sustaining healthy deer populations on your property. By providing a diverse and nutritious food source, you can improve deer health, antler growth, and overall well-being.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of deer plot food, how to plan and maintain a successful deer plot, and tips for attracting deer to your plot. We’ll also provide case studies and examples of successful deer plot management.
Types of Deer Plot Food
Creating a deer plot is an effective way to attract and sustain deer on your property. The key to a successful deer plot is to provide a variety of high-quality food sources that meet the nutritional needs of deer throughout the year.
There are two main types of deer plot food: natural and cultivated. Natural deer plot foods are those that occur naturally in the area where you are hunting. Cultivated deer plot foods are those that are planted and grown specifically for deer.
Natural Deer Plot Foods
- Acorns:Acorns are a high-energy food source that is relished by deer. Oak trees are common in many parts of the country, so acorns are often a readily available food source for deer.
- Browse:Browse is the term used to describe the leaves, twigs, and stems of trees and shrubs. Browse is a good source of protein and minerals for deer.
- Forbs:Forbs are broad-leaved plants that are not grasses. Forbs are a good source of vitamins and minerals for deer.
- Grasses:Grasses are a good source of carbohydrates for deer. Deer will often graze on grasses in the early morning and evening.
- Mushrooms:Mushrooms are a good source of protein and vitamins for deer. Deer will often eat mushrooms that are found in the forest.
Cultivated Deer Plot Foods
- Alfalfa:Alfalfa is a high-protein forage that is very attractive to deer. Alfalfa can be planted in the spring or fall.
- Clover:Clover is a high-protein forage that is also very attractive to deer. Clover can be planted in the spring or fall.
- Corn:Corn is a high-energy food source that is very attractive to deer. Corn can be planted in the spring or summer.
- Soybeans:Soybeans are a high-protein food source that is very attractive to deer. Soybeans can be planted in the spring or summer.
- Wheat:Wheat is a high-carbohydrate food source that is very attractive to deer. Wheat can be planted in the fall.
Planning a Deer Plot
Deer plots are a great way to attract and hold deer on your property. By providing a high-quality food source, you can keep deer coming back for more. But before you start planting, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure your deer plot is a success.
Selecting the Best Location
The first step is to select the best location for your deer plot. The ideal location will be:
- Close to water
- In an area with good sunlight
- Protected from wind
- Away from human activity
Determining the Optimal Size and Shape
The size and shape of your deer plot will depend on the size of your property and the number of deer you want to attract. A good rule of thumb is to plant a plot that is at least 1/2 acre in size.
The shape of the plot is not as important, but it should be irregular in shape to provide deer with a variety of cover.
Preparing the Soil and Planting
Once you have selected a location for your deer plot, you need to prepare the soil and plant the food. The first step is to clear the area of any vegetation. You can do this by mowing, burning, or using herbicides.
Once the area is cleared, you need to till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches.The next step is to plant the deer plot food. You can choose from a variety of different types of food, but some of the most popular options include:
- Corn
- Soybeans
- Alfalfa
- Clover
You can plant the food by hand or with a seed drill. If you are planting by hand, be sure to plant the seeds at a depth of 1/2 inch to 1 inch.
Crop Rotation and Companion Planting, Deer plot food
Crop rotation is a good way to improve the health of your deer plot and prevent disease. By rotating the crops you plant each year, you can help to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases. Companion planting is another good way to improve the health of your deer plot.
By planting different types of food together, you can create a more diverse ecosystem that is more resistant to pests and diseases.
Maintaining a Deer Plot
Maintaining a deer plot is crucial to ensure it remains a productive and attractive food source for deer. Here are some key maintenance practices to follow:
Watering
Providing a reliable water source near the deer plot is essential, especially during dry seasons. Water can be provided through natural sources like streams or ponds, or artificial sources like water troughs or tanks. Ensure the water source is easily accessible and kept clean to prevent contamination.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing the deer plot regularly is necessary to replenish nutrients and maintain soil fertility. Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for deer plots, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and frequency. Fertilizing promotes healthy plant growth and increases the nutritional value of the forage for deer.
Mowing
Mowing the deer plot occasionally helps control weeds and promotes new plant growth. Mow the plot when the vegetation reaches a height of 12-18 inches, removing excess growth that may hinder deer movement or access to preferred plants. Mowing also stimulates tillering, resulting in denser and more nutritious forage.
Weed and Pest Control
Controlling weeds and pests is essential to maintain the quality of the deer plot. Weeds compete with desirable plants for nutrients and sunlight, while pests can damage or destroy plants. Regularly inspect the plot for weeds and pests, and take appropriate control measures using herbicides or pesticides approved for use in deer plots.
If you’re looking to improve the quality of your deer plot food, consider adding some shih tzu dog food to the mix. Shih tzu dog food is packed with nutrients that are essential for deer growth and development, and it can help to attract and hold deer on your property.
In addition to shih tzu dog food, there are a number of other things you can do to improve the quality of your deer plot food, such as planting a variety of forage crops and fertilizing the soil.
Preventing Overgrazing
Overgrazing can occur when deer consume more forage than the plot can produce, leading to reduced plant growth and nutritional value. To prevent overgrazing, consider implementing rotational grazing techniques by dividing the plot into smaller sections and allowing deer to access only one section at a time.
Additionally, provide alternative food sources outside the deer plot to supplement their diet and reduce pressure on the plot.
Attracting Deer to a Deer Plot
Luring deer to your deer plot is the key to successful hunting. This can be achieved through the strategic use of scents, attractants, and a well-designed food plot layout. By minimizing human disturbance, you can create an environment that deer feel comfortable visiting.
Using Scents and Attractants
Scents and attractants can be highly effective in attracting deer to a deer plot. Commercial deer scents are available in various forms, including liquids, granules, and blocks. These scents mimic the natural scents of deer, such as urine, glandular secretions, and food sources, which can trigger a deer’s curiosity or desire to feed.
Natural attractants, such as apples, corn, and salt licks, can also be used to attract deer. These attractants provide a food source that deer find appealing and can be placed in or around the deer plot to entice them to visit.
Creating an Appealing Food Plot Layout
The layout of your deer plot can significantly impact its attractiveness to deer. Deer prefer food plots that offer a variety of food sources and cover. Consider planting a mix of grasses, legumes, and forbs to provide a diverse diet for deer.
Additionally, creating brush piles or leaving standing timber within the plot can provide cover for deer to feel safe while feeding.
Minimizing Human Disturbance
Human disturbance can spook deer and deter them from visiting a deer plot. To minimize human disturbance, consider the following tips:
- Avoid entering the deer plot during daylight hours, especially during hunting season.
- Place the deer plot in a secluded area away from human activity.
- Use scent-eliminating products on your clothing and gear.
- Install trail cameras to monitor deer activity and avoid disturbing them during peak feeding times.
Benefits of Deer Plot Food
Deer plot food offers a range of nutritional benefits for deer, enhancing their health and well-being. By providing a concentrated source of essential nutrients, deer plot food helps deer meet their dietary requirements and thrive.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein:Deer plot food is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and antler growth.
- Carbohydrates:These provide energy for deer, especially during periods of high activity or cold weather.
- Minerals:Deer plot food contains vital minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, necessary for bone health, antler development, and overall well-being.
- Vitamins:Deer plot food is a good source of vitamins, including vitamins A, D, and E, which support immune function, vision, and reproductive health.
Improved Health and Antler Growth
The nutritional benefits of deer plot food translate into improved health and antler growth for deer. Adequate protein intake supports muscle development and tissue repair, leading to healthier and more robust animals. Minerals like calcium and phosphorus contribute to strong bones and healthy antlers, while vitamins support immune function and overall well-being.
Attracting and Retaining Deer
Deer plot food plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining deer on a property. By providing a reliable source of high-quality nutrition, deer plot food creates a desirable destination for deer, encouraging them to stay in the area. This can be especially beneficial for hunting properties, as it helps to increase deer density and improve hunting success.
Final Review: Deer Plot Food
Whether you’re a seasoned deer hunter or simply want to attract deer to your property, deer plot food is an essential tool. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can create a thriving deer plot that will provide years of enjoyment.
