Introduction
The crisp morning air, the distant rustle of leaves, the thrill of the hunt – these are the things that draw many people to the outdoors. But successful hunting, and indeed the overall health of wildlife populations, relies on more than just luck and skill. It depends heavily on the quality and availability of food sources. Creating a thriving habitat is crucial, and a well-managed food plot is one of the most effective tools in a hunter’s or wildlife enthusiast’s arsenal. And when it comes to attracting deer and other desirable game, few options are as attractive and beneficial as the humble yet powerful food plot pea.
Food plots are essentially small, cultivated areas planted with vegetation specifically chosen to attract and nourish wildlife. They act as supplemental food sources, providing crucial nutrients when natural forage is scarce, such as during winter months or periods of drought. These plots not only enhance the health of the animals you want to see thriving, but they also improve your odds of seeing them during hunting season.
This guide dives deep into the world of food plot peas, explaining their remarkable benefits, how to plant them, and how to manage them for maximum impact. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice wildlife enthusiast, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to create a thriving and productive food plot that will draw deer and other wildlife to your property, year after year.
What are Food Plot Peas?
When we talk about food plot peas, we’re referring to various types of pea plants that are strategically planted to provide a highly palatable and nutritious food source for wildlife. They’re not the same as the garden peas you might grow for yourself, although the concept is similar. The focus with food plot peas is maximizing yield, palatability, and nutritional value for the targeted wildlife, typically deer, turkey, and other ungulates.
There are a few popular varieties of peas that are commonly used in food plots. Austrian winter peas are among the most popular and well-regarded. Known for their cold hardiness, they can withstand harsh winter conditions, offering a reliable food source when other vegetation is dormant. Field peas, often grown for livestock feed, also work well in food plots. They are typically more tolerant of varying soil conditions. Other less common types are also sometimes used, but these two are the workhorses of the food plot world.
The nutritional powerhouse that is the food plot pea is what truly sets it apart. They are packed with protein, a critical building block for muscle development, antler growth (in bucks), and overall health in deer. They also provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy and are rich in various vitamins and minerals that are essential for growth and survival. This balanced nutritional profile makes peas an incredibly valuable food source, especially during the critical late-winter and early-spring periods when deer are recovering from the stresses of the rut and winter, respectively.
But it isn’t just about the nutrition; it’s about appeal. Deer and other wildlife find food plot peas incredibly palatable. Their sweet taste and tender foliage make them an irresistible treat, drawing animals to your plots and keeping them coming back for more. This is particularly true early in the season, when the young, tender pea plants are at their most succulent.
Benefits of Food Plot Peas
The benefits of incorporating food plot peas into your wildlife management strategy are numerous and far-reaching, extending far beyond simply attracting deer. Let’s delve into the advantages they offer.
One of the primary benefits of food plot peas is their undeniable ability to attract wildlife. The combination of high palatability and exceptional nutritional value is a magnet for deer, turkeys, and other game species. As soon as the peas begin to sprout, they’ll be readily consumed, leading to more frequent sightings and a greater chance of a successful hunting season. This concentration of wildlife in a defined area can also make it easier to monitor your deer herd, track their movements, and gather valuable information for future management efforts.
But the impact of food plot peas goes far beyond simply attracting animals. They contribute to soil health in a significant way. Pea plants are legumes, which means they have a special relationship with soil bacteria. These bacteria, living in nodules on the pea’s roots, have the remarkable ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and convert it into a form that plants can use. This process naturally fertilizes the soil, reducing the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and improving soil fertility over time. This is a huge win for the long-term health of your food plot, and the surrounding ecosystem.
Another considerable advantage is the cost-effectiveness of food plot peas. Compared to some other food plot crops, peas are generally quite affordable. The cost of seed is reasonable, and the planting and management requirements are relatively simple. This makes them a budget-friendly option for landowners looking to improve their wildlife habitat without breaking the bank. Furthermore, peas can often be incorporated into a larger planting strategy with minimal additional cost.
Food plot peas are also incredibly versatile. They can be planted as a standalone crop, providing a concentrated food source, or they can be incorporated into a mix with other plants. Mixing peas with grains like oats or wheat provides both a protein and carbohydrate source, creating a balanced diet. This can extend the availability of forage throughout the year and improve the overall nutritional value of the plot. They’re a fantastic foundation for a more complex food plot plan.
Finally, the consistent food source offered by food plot peas can dramatically increase hunting success. By providing a reliable food source in a specific area, you can predictably attract deer and hold them in that location. This increases your odds of seeing deer, and in many instances, the quality of deer as well. With more deer using the area, you have more opportunities to scout, and ultimately, more opportunities to harvest a mature buck.
Planting Food Plot Peas
Successfully planting food plot peas requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you maximize your chances of success.
Choosing the right location is the first crucial step. Food plot peas perform best in areas with ample sunlight, typically at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Select a location with well-drained soil. Waterlogged soil can lead to poor germination and increased disease issues. A slight slope is ideal for drainage. Consider your soil type; food plot peas will do well in most soil types, but like loamy soils better. Also, ensure that the plot is easily accessible for planting and maintenance.
Before planting, proper soil preparation is crucial. This begins with soil testing. A soil test will reveal the pH level, nutrient levels, and other important information about your soil. Food plot peas thrive in a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, typically between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, you’ll need to amend it with lime to raise the pH. The soil test will also determine if there are any nutrient deficiencies that need to be addressed with fertilizer.
Tilling the soil is essential for preparing the seedbed. Tilling loosens the soil, improves drainage, and incorporates organic matter. Till the soil to a depth of about four to six inches, or to the depth recommended by your soil test. This creates a loose and friable seedbed that allows for good seed-to-soil contact, which is crucial for germination.
The planting time is critical, and timing depends on your region and climate. In most areas, food plot peas are best planted in the fall. This allows them to establish roots before winter, providing them with a head start in the spring. However, depending on the variety and your local conditions, a spring planting can also be successful. Consult local agricultural extension services or experienced hunters in your area for the best planting dates for your region.
Choosing the right seeding rate is important for maximizing growth. Recommended seeding rates vary depending on the pea variety and planting method, but a general guideline is to use 80 to 100 pounds of seed per acre if planting alone. If planting in a mix, adjust the seeding rate accordingly, typically reducing the pea seeding rate and adding seed for the companion species.
There are two primary planting methods for food plot peas: broadcasting and drilling. Broadcasting involves scattering the seeds evenly over the prepared soil surface, then lightly covering them with a drag, harrow, or by cultipacking. Drilling involves using a seed drill to plant the seeds at a uniform depth. Drilling provides better seed-to-soil contact and generally results in more consistent germination.
Consider planting peas with companion crops, which is a common and effective strategy. Oats, wheat, and annual ryegrass are often used as companion crops. These grains provide additional forage and support the pea plants, acting as a natural trellis. Plus, companion crops often help to suppress weeds. The mixture can also extend the length of time a food plot pea will be available.
Managing Food Plot Peas
Once the peas are planted, proper management is essential to ensure their healthy growth and productivity.
Fertilization is an important aspect of food plot pea management. Following the recommendations from your soil test, apply the necessary fertilizers to provide the plants with the nutrients they need. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and increased disease susceptibility. If you’re planting peas with a companion crop, apply a balanced fertilizer that supports the needs of both crops.
Weed control is a critical part of food plot pea maintenance. Weeds compete with peas for sunlight, water, and nutrients, and can significantly reduce yields. Pre-emergent herbicides can be used to control weeds before they germinate. Post-emergent herbicides are used to control weeds after they emerge. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying herbicides. Regular mowing and manual weeding can also help control weeds.
Pests and diseases can impact food plot peas. Common pests include aphids, bean leaf beetles, and various types of caterpillars. These can be managed with insecticides. Disease is another threat. Root rot, powdery mildew, and downy mildew can all negatively impact the peas. Proper soil drainage, crop rotation, and the use of disease-resistant varieties can help prevent diseases.
Deer grazing is, of course, a significant factor when dealing with food plot peas. In areas with high deer populations, heavy grazing pressure can severely impact pea growth. If the pressure is too intense, consider using temporary fencing or a grazing exclosure to protect the young plants. As the peas mature, they will become more resistant to grazing.
If rainfall is insufficient, consider watering the peas, particularly during dry periods. Adequate moisture is essential for germination and growth.
Harvesting and Utilization
The time when the peas are ready for your hunting friends is crucial. Ultimately, you will want to let the wildlife eat the peas, so plan your plots accordingly.
Conclusion
Food plot peas are an invaluable addition to any wildlife management program. Their ability to attract deer, improve soil health, and provide a nutritious food source makes them a cornerstone of successful food plots. By understanding the benefits, planting techniques, and management practices outlined in this guide, you can create thriving plots that will draw deer and other wildlife to your property and significantly increase your hunting success.
Now, take the knowledge you’ve gained and start planning your own food plot peas! The rewards, both in the field and in the long-term health of your wildlife, will be well worth the effort.
Resources
[Insert link to your local agricultural extension service]
[Insert link to a reputable seed supplier]
