How to Plant Food For Whitetail Deer
- 1). Plant Whitetail deer food in long strips along fence lines, field borders and woodland edges. The plot should be at least 1,000 square feet in size for seasonal coverage, while a plot that is five acres or larger is best for year-round coverage. If space is an issue, fertilize surrounding native plants with a 10-10-10 fertilizer during spring and early fall.
- 2). Take soil samples to measure nutrient and pH levels. To do this, take samples into your local extension office for results, or test it yourself with a store-bought soil test kit.
- 3). Consult with an agronomist (an agricultural expert), especially if you're unfamiliar with the workings of soil and plant combinations. They can help determine the best plants for the climate and soil type, and the best time to plant them.
- 4). Prepare the plot by mowing grass or other vegetation as low as possible. Till up small areas with a rototiller and large areas with a tractor and rig. Rake smooth. Check with equipment stores for rentals, if needed. Add soil amendments according to what the results of the soil test dictate.
- 5). Pay attention to the type of crops growing in nearby fields. Entice Whitetail deer by offering an alternative, deer-friendly crop.
- 6). To acquire seeds, look to farmers, wildlife organizations and sporting good stores. For large areas, plant seeds with a tractor and seed planter. If you don't own the proper equipment, hire local farmers or rent equipment from an equipment store. In small areas, broadcast seeds by hand.
- 7). If you're in an area with a low deer population and where space is an issue, stick to two crops, clover and corn. Clover offers protein in the warm months, while corn provides much-needed carbohydrates in the winter. Plant at least 2.5 acres of corn to provide enough food for the winter. If you're in the northern part of the country, plant more corn than clover, as winter is the time of greatest stress for Whitetail deer. In southern parts of the country, plant more clover, to help combat late-summer stress.
- 8). Treat Whitetail deer to alfalfa. It's one of their favorite foods and full of protein; Whitetail will feed off it from spring to early fall. The alfalfa plot, which will be expensive to maintain and attract many insects, may last up to seven years. However, if you have the proper equipment and space, you can cut costs by harvesting and selling alfalfa hay.
- 9). Plant clover for springtime feeding. Clover provides deer with calcium for proper bone and antler production. It's easy to establish and maintain, but loses nutritional value after frost.
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Provide Whitetail deer with alfalfa and soybeans for summer feeding. Alfalfa is a favorite of deer and they love grazing mineral-enriched soybean greens. - 11
Plant soybeans for fall feeding. They're easy to grow, and deer love the seedpods. - 12
Plant corn and soybeans for winter-feeding. Full of carbohydrates, corn is one the best plants for winter-feeding. Plant soybeans in lieu of corn in dry weather locations. - 13
Plant Purple Top turnips, sunflowers, apple trees and acorn trees for a special treat.
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