Quick Answer
To attract deer in summer, focus on foods high in moisture and nutrients, such as fruits, berries, and green forages. Planting a mix of warm-season crops like corn, sunflowers, and alfalfa can also draw deer into your area. Use a combination of these tactics to create a deer-friendly summer feeding ground.
Understanding Deer Nutrition in Summer
Deer in summer require foods rich in moisture and nutrients to compensate for the heat and dryness. Fruits like apples, blueberries, and blackberries are excellent choices, as they provide essential vitamins and minerals. Berries are particularly attractive to deer due to their high sugar content and ease of digestion.
Planting a Deer-Friendly Summer Garden
When planting a summer garden, choose warm-season crops that thrive in the heat, such as corn, sunflowers, and alfalfa. Planting these crops in a mix of 3:1 corn:alfalfa ratio can provide a balanced and nutritious food source for deer. Consider using a 50-foot row spacing to allow deer to easily access the plants.
Supplemental Feeding Techniques
To enhance the attractiveness of your deer-friendly summer garden, consider using supplemental feeding techniques like food plots and mineral licks. Food plots can be created by planting a mix of seeds specifically formulated for deer, while mineral licks can be made by adding essential minerals to a water source. By combining these techniques, you can create a summer feeding ground that deer will find irresistible.
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