Warm Season Food Plots Considerations

Warm-season (spring) plant species are more reliable when used in food plots for white-tailed deer in bottomland soils. This fact occurs because bottomland sites are where the highest amount of moisture is retained during the drier summer months. This is important information to remember for the success of your food plot, as well as your overall deer management program. However, care should be taken to select a site that is not prone to flooding from nearby streams, rivers, or other waterways. Drought upland soils are not good sites for warm-season species, so avoid such areas and concentrate on your better soils for successful food plots.

This seems simple, but it can make a big difference between success and failure. Warm-season plant species should be selected for their ability to grow quickly and compete with native weeds. Remember, with either warm or cool-season supplemental forages, soil samples should be taken to determine lime and fertilizer requirements. Failure to properly prepare the soil may result in drastically reduced yield or excessive weed competition. A good source for local information will be your county extension agent and they can usually help with soil testing for your food plots.

So whether you are planning on establishing a cool (fall) season food plot or a spring food plot, the best thing you can do is ensure you do your research before doing anything else. There are many commercial sources for seed, but check around with several sources before you make your selection. Seed sources have a vested interest in selling you the seeds they sell, but it may not be the best seed for your soil–or for the deer on your property. Good luck with your future food plots and deer management program. Drop me a line in the comment box if you have any questions about white-tailed deer, food plots, or anything else.