Springtime Food Plots for Whitetail Deer: Grow Nutrition, Grow Success
As the days get longer and temperatures rise, spring is the perfect time to establish food plots that will sustain whitetail deer throughout the year. A well-planned food plot provides high-quality nutrition for bucks growing new antlers, does raising fawns, and deer coming out of winter in need of replenishment. Here’s what you need to know to create a thriving springtime food plot.
Why Plant a Spring Food Plot?
Spring food plots serve a vital role in a deer’s yearly nutrition cycle:
- Supports antler growth with high-protein forage.
- Helps does recover from winter and produce nutrient-rich milk for fawns.
- Encourages deer to stay on your land rather than searching for food elsewhere.
- Sets the stage for better hunting opportunities in the fall.
Top Crops for Spring Food Plots
1. Clover
Clover is one of the best choices for spring food plots. It’s packed with protein, drought-resistant, and regrows year after year. Bonus: It also attracts pollinators and insects, making it beneficial for the ecosystem.
Best Varieties: Ladino, Red Clover, Durana
2. Alfalfa
Alfalfa provides an excellent protein source (18-25%) for deer and thrives in well-drained soil. It’s ideal for long-term plots but requires regular mowing to prevent it from becoming too mature.
3. Chicory
Chicory is highly palatable and provides a steady food source throughout the warm months. It’s also drought-resistant, making it a reliable choice for summer nutrition.
4. Soybeans (For Larger Plots)
Soybeans are a top-tier food source for deer, offering protein levels of 25-30%. They provide high-quality forage in the spring and pods that last into fall and winter.
5. Oats & Wheat
These cool-season grains offer an early food source while transitioning to summer vegetation. Oats are especially attractive in spring, while wheat remains a good option for fall plots.
How to Prepare Your Spring Food Plot
1. Choose the Right Location
Select an area with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Low-lying areas prone to flooding should be avoided.
2. Conduct a Soil Test
Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Most deer food plot crops thrive in soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Lime and fertilizer should be added as needed to optimize growth.
3. Plant at the Right Time
Spring planting should begin when soil temperatures consistently reach 50-60°F. This ensures seeds germinate properly and establish strong root systems.
4. Maintenance for Long-Term Success
- Weed Control: Weeds compete for nutrients, so keep them in check with mowing or selective herbicides.
- Mowing & Fertilizing: Regular mowing helps clover and alfalfa thrive, while fertilizer boosts growth.
- Rotation & Reseeding: To prevent soil depletion, rotate crops or overseed to maintain plot health.
Final Thoughts
A well-planned spring food plot sets the foundation for a thriving deer herd and a successful hunting season. Whether you're planting clover for protein-packed grazing or soybeans for long-term nutrition, investing in a quality food plot now will pay off in the months to come.
Scott hart- The Tool Store