Quick Answer
Supplementing food plots in late season can be beneficial, but it's crucial to consider the specific needs of your deer herd and the time of year. Focusing on high-energy food sources, such as brassicas and oats, can help sustain deer through the harsh winter months. Timing and variety are key to success.
Choosing the Right Crops
When supplementing food plots in late season, it’s essential to focus on high-energy crops that can provide sustenance for deer during the cold winter months. Brassicas, such as kale and radish, are excellent choices due to their quick maturation rate and high nutritional value. For example, kale can be planted in late summer or early fall and will be ready to harvest in as little as 40 days.
Timing is Everything
Timing is critical when supplementing food plots in late season. It’s best to plant crops that mature quickly, as this will allow deer to access the food source before the ground freezes. Consider planting multiple crops that mature at different times to provide a continuous food source throughout the winter. For instance, planting oats and triticale in the fall can provide a food source for deer from late December to early January.
Monitoring and Maintenance
To ensure the success of your late-season food plots, it’s crucial to monitor the deer herd’s response and adjust your strategy accordingly. Keep an eye on the deer’s body condition and adjust the food source as needed. Additionally, maintain the plots by controlling weeds and ensuring the crops receive adequate moisture. This will help prevent the plots from becoming degraded and ensure they remain a valuable resource for the deer herd.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.