Each year, hunters and deer managers are faced with a common question: "What is the best thing to plant for white-tailed deer food plots in the spring?" While there is no easy, one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are some key factors to consider when selecting plant species for a whitetail food plot.
Factors to Consider
Soils, rainfall, and temperatures vary from property to property and from one area of a property to another. Before identifying suitable plant species for a whitetail food plot, address the following questions:
- Spring or fall food plot?
- What type of soil do you have?
- How much rainfall do you get?
- What type of equipment do you have?
- How much do you want to spend on seed?
Considering these variables is crucial in determining which plant species can thrive on your land and provide forage for white-tailed deer.
Picture: Planting Spring Food Plots for Whitetail Deer
Sorghum for Spring Plots
Grain sorghum, also known as milo or maize, is an excellent choice for a simple spring/summer food plot for deer. In areas with high whitetail densities, sorghum is a resilient plant that can compete well with weeds and still produce seed heads. Although the plant itself is not consumed during the summer, the seed heads are a valuable food source for deer in late summer and fall.
One advantage of sorghum is its ability to guarantee an annual crop as it is not consumed by deer. It requires minimal water and is easy to plant. Simply prepare the ground, broadcast the seeds, and ensure good seed-soil contact.
Picture: Common Food Plot Plants
However, there are drawbacks to consider. Deer in areas with moderate to high densities may eat the sorghum heads prematurely, reducing their effectiveness as a winter food source. Additionally, the seed of sorghum is less desirable to deer compared to corn as a source of winter carbohydrates. It is best suited for larger properties or areas with a high number of deer.
Corn: Spring Planting for Hunting, Food Plot
In areas with deep soils and sufficient rainfall, corn is a popular choice for spring food plots. However, corn requires substantial fertilizer and may not be cost-effective. It is highly attractive to white-tailed deer, particularly during the winter when high-energy carbohydrates are crucial.
To establish a successful corn plot for fall deer hunting, it must be planted in the spring. However, in areas with large numbers of deer, they may start consuming the green stalks and leaves during the summer, hindering plant growth. Corn consumed during the summer is not the best deer food, being high in sugary carbohydrates and low in protein. It is most beneficial for providing supplemental nutrition during the winter and improving late-season deer hunting.
Picture: Common Food Plot Plants
Soybeans for Whitetail Deer
Soybeans are another excellent choice for spring and summer food plots. They are easy to establish and drought-tolerant like sorghum. Soybeans extract essential minerals from the soil, making them highly beneficial for deer. During the summer, deer primarily consume the leaves of soybean plants. However, if deer numbers are high, the plants may be completely consumed before summer arrives.
Mature soybean plants can withstand feeding pressure and still produce seed pods. These seed pods become a valuable food source for white-tailed deer during the fall and winter.
Picture: Common Food Plot Plants
Conclusion
When it comes to spring food plots for deer, sorghum, corn, and soybeans are reliable choices. These plants perform well across the whitetail's range and are relatively easy to plant. However, before embarking on a new food plot project, evaluate the deer herd and property to determine if a spring food plot will help achieve your objectives or if other aspects of the herd or habitat should be addressed first. Happy planting!
Source: Spring Food Plots for Deer
