Building Better Food Plots: Growing Healthier Deer from the Ground Up

First things first: Before planting a single seed, it's important to understand your soil. A soil test can reveal pH levels and nutrient deficiencies that may limit plant growth. I cannot stress how important this is, and this should be your first priority. 

Many food plot failures aren't caused by poor seed selection, they're caused by poor soil. There’s nothing worse than taking time out of your busy schedule, working in the blazing sun, sweat in your eyes, dealing with 3 breakdowns, 2 trips to town, and not to mention the time and money in renting equipment if you don’t own your own… if your soil is unbalanced, all that time and money planting results in little to no growth, and that’s heartbreaking! 

Applying lime helps raise soil pH, allowing plants to better absorb nutrients. Most food plot species perform best in a pH range of 6.0–7.0. Fertilizer is equally important, supplying nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support vigorous growth and maximize forage production. 

By investing in lime and fertilizer, you're not just growing plants, you're growing healthier deer. That’s a win-win!

Why Deer Love Different Food Plot Species, To Name A Few:

Soybeans 

Soybeans are one of the most attractive and nutritious summer food plot options available. High in protein, they help support antler growth and lactating does during the summer months. As fall arrives, mature beans also provide a valuable energy source.

Oats 

Oats are a favorite among many hunters because of their fast germination and high palatability. Planted in late summer or early fall, oats provide tender, nutrient-rich forage that deer often seek out immediately after emergence. They perform especially well as part of a blend with clover or rye, helping create an attractive food source throughout the hunting season. While oats may winterkill in colder climates, they provide valuable early-season attraction and can help draw deer into predictable feeding patterns during archery season.

Alfalfa

Often called the "queen of forages," alfalfa delivers exceptional protein levels and can attract deer throughout much of the year. When properly maintained, alfalfa provides years of high-quality forage.

Corn

Corn shines during late season when deer are searching for carbohydrates and energy to survive winter conditions. Standing corn also offers valuable cover in addition to food. We always leave some standing for this reason, especially to create pinch points and funnels that naturally direct deer movement.

Clover

Clover remains a food plot favorite because it's highly palatable, easy to establish, and provides protein-rich forage from spring through fall. It also naturally fixes nitrogen in the soil, improving soil health over time. Our clover plots always seem to thrive year after year without having to replant.

Rye

Rye germinates quickly and thrives in cooler temperatures, making it an excellent fall planting. It provides critical green forage when many native food sources begin to disappear.

Maintenance Matters