Have you ever found yourself running out of food on your small private parcel or food plot program? Many hunters face this challenge, and the solution often goes beyond simply shooting more deer. We’re here to explore some key recommendations to ensure that your food lasts longer into the hunting season, allowing you to create a healthier and more sustainable deer habitat.
1. Daylight Brows:
The first crucial element is addressing the importance of daylight brows. Unlike a Pine Forest or mature woods with no brows, having ample brows during the daylight hours is essential. This prevents deer from entering food plots in a state of starvation, ensuring they consume more of the available food. Balancing food plots with quality brows is critical for sustaining deer herds during the hunting season.
2. Critical Pockets of Grain:
Creating concentrated pockets of grain is another effective strategy. Rather than having long, linear plantings that attract a multitude of critters, forming clusters or pockets of grain helps preserve the interior portions of the crop. This method ensures that the grain remains intact and available for deer consumption, offering a more sustainable food source.
3. November-Focused Food:
November is a critical month, and your food plot strategy should reflect that. Balancing the diversity of your food to cater to different periods within the hunting season is essential. Ensuring your food plot provides quality sustenance from mid-September through December is key to keeping deer well-fed and satisfied during the critical hunting season.
4. Nutrients, pH, and Weed Control:
Taking care of the soil is fundamental to a successful food plot. Adequate nutrients, proper pH levels, and effective weed control are essential components. Fertilizing the soil, addressing pH levels, and controlling weeds contribute to optimal plant growth. Utilizing products like DeerGro helps maximize nutrient absorption and ensures your food plot remains a lush and attractive food source.
5. Efficient Land Management:
Efficiency in land management is crucial. Focus on quality over quantity, as having two acres of well-maintained food plot can outperform ten acres of neglected, weedy fields. Properly addressing weed concerns, pH levels, and nutrient content allows for better growth, attracting more deer and providing a more concentrated and sustainable food source.
While increasing deer population is one aspect of successful hunting, doing it right is equally important. By implementing these five tips, you can ensure a more sustainable and attractive food plot for deer. Remember, quality habitat management and efficient land practices play a significant role in creating a thriving and healthy deer herd on your property.
Article Credit: Information sourced from Jeff Sturgis of Whitetail Habitat Solutions