Once he rubs, there is no longer any flow of blood or nutrition to his rack and all growth stops for that year. You can provide high quality protein at this time of year in several ways including pelleted feeds, food plots and nutrition blocks. This will be covered more comprehensively in a later article. Providing a scientifically proven balance of dietary minerals and vitamins during the same antler growth timeframe will work with the protein to unlock the genetic potential in your bucks. Beware of fad recipes and homemade mixes.
Nutrition is a science.
Vitamins and minerals interact and improper amounts can cause serious side effects. Mineral supplements are among the easiest nutritional components you can use. Simply pour a bag of granular mineral powder on the ground or on a stump in an area of deer travel. Keep these sites filled from February through August. Establish at least one 20-pound mineral site per 40 acres of deer cover.