Recommended Planting Techniques For Kill Plots?

Choosing the Right Plant Species

When designing a kill plot, selecting the right plant species is crucial. A mix of clover and alfalfa works well for deer hunting as they provide a reliable source of food and attract deer from a distance. For a more diverse mix, incorporate oats into the planting. Oats will germinate quickly and provide a lush ground cover, attracting deer in the early season. A recommended ratio for a mix is 50% clover, 30% alfalfa, and 20% oats.

Planting Techniques

To ensure the most effective kill plot, plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart. This spacing allows for adequate sunlight penetration and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to disease and pest issues. A good rule of thumb is to plant in the early spring or fall, when the soil is cooler, to reduce competition from weeds and other vegetation. When planting, create a rectangular shape with the long axis oriented north-south to reduce sunlight and heat, which can lead to stress on the plants and reduce their effectiveness as a food source. A 5-10 foot buffer zone around the perimeter should be left unplanted to provide a clear visual and auditory path for deer to move through the area.

Designing the Staging Area

In addition to the kill plot, consider creating a staging area with a mix of screening cover and trail systems to funnel deer into the kill plot. This can be achieved by planting a mix of native grasses and shrubs, such as switchgrass and dogwood, along the perimeter of the property. A staging area can be 1-2 acres in size and should be designed to funnel deer into the kill plot in a natural way. This can be achieved by creating a gentle slope or by incorporating a series of small clearings and dense thickets to guide deer movement.