Seeds of corn, grain sorghum, beans, and peas are energy-rich foods that are suitable for food plots and are planted during the spring and summer. Food plots should be from 1 to 5 acres in size to help ensure adequate food production and availability. Larger plots may be needed for summer plantings of beans or peas in areas where deer populations are high. The correct lime and fertilizer is absolutely necessary for optimum production, nutrient quality, and use of food plantings by deer. Table 2 gives recommendations for several fall green field plantings.
County agents can help with suitable plant varieties, planting dates, and methods.
Fertilizing Fertilizing woodlands and patches of native vegetation is an effective but underused method of attracting deer. Nutritional content and production of Japanese honeysuckle may be increased by light, periodic applications of complete fertilizer during spring and summer. Deer are attracted to these natural food plots by the improved nutrition and taste of fertilized plants. Acorn yields of oaks may be increased by applying regular fertilizer from spring through summer. 60-90 pounds broadcast For more information, call your county Extension office.