Introduction
Creating a food plot serves as an excellent way to enhance the available food sources for wildlife. When it comes to attracting deer, throw and grow food plots have gained popularity due to their minimal maintenance requirements. In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of throw and grow food plots, the types of plants that can be cultivated, and whether they genuinely allure deer.
The Effectiveness of Throw and Grow Food Plots for Deer
Throw-and-grow food plots typically succeed in attracting deer to your property. However, several factors should be considered to maximize their effectiveness. The appeal of the plants grown in your plot may vary for deer, depending on the availability of high-quality food sources in the area. If there is an abundance of nutritious food nearby, deer may have little incentive to venture towards your food plot.
To achieve better results, it is advisable to choose a location where deer feel safe and secure while foraging. Opt for a peaceful area away from roads and buildings. Although throw-and-grow plots require minimal maintenance, some basic preparation is recommended to facilitate plant growth. Clear the plot of existing vegetation and till the soil to ensure optimal contact between the seeds and soil. Testing the soil and adding lime or fertilizer can also promote growth.
Choosing the Best Throw and Grow Food Plot
The ideal throw-and-grow food plot depends on your specific goals. Some individuals might aim to retain deer in a particular area throughout the year, while others may prefer a plot that provides additional forage during fall, winter, or spring. Additionally, factors such as deer movement should be taken into account. A large food plot can keep deer within a specific area, but they may also migrate between smaller plots.
The Best Throw and Grow Deer Food Plot
To determine the success of a throw-and-grow food plot, your choice of plants is crucial. Opt for resilient plants that thrive with minimal oversight. In the wild, deer consume a variety of crops, grasses, and nuts, ensuring a diverse diet. They must forage for approximately 6-8% of their body weight in food daily. Consider incorporating the following options into your food plot:
- Cereals like wheat, oat, triplicate, and rye are highly nutritious, making them ideal for winter.
- Brassicas such as rape or kale provide rapid growth and are rich in protein, making them suitable for year-round use.
- Turnips and radishes offer variety. Turnips adapt well to dry environments, while radishes are highly resilient.
For the best results, use a combination of these plants to offer deer a diverse range of options. This approach ensures that if a particular plant struggles in your area, others will compensate for it.
Vegetable garden plot
Additionally, the location of your food plot plays a significant role. By investing a bit more time in your throw and grow plot, such as tilling the soil or adding fertilizer, you can maximize its growth potential.
Throw and Grow No-Till Forage
If you wish to skip the step of tilling the ground before planting, look for resilient seeds that can establish contact with the soil easily. Clover and chicory are excellent options that thrive without tilling.
Throw and Grow Seeds
Using a high-quality seed mix will yield better results. Alternatively, you can create your own seed mix. Most seeds remain viable for two to three years.
Throw and Grow Tractor Supply
Tractor Supply is a reputable retailer offering a wide range of throw-and-grow seed mixes. Brands such as Evolved Harvest, PlotSpike, Tecomate, and Whitetail Food Plots USA are available. Tractor Supply also provides individual seeds, such as clover or oats, for those who prefer to grow a single plant.
Throw and Grow 7 Card Stud
One popular option is the 7 Card Stud food plot seed mix from Evolved Harvest. This affordable mix includes triticale, oats, winter peas, clover, chicory, turnip, and radishes. These plants provide deer with high-quality nutrition and contribute to a diverse food plot. With this seed mix, there will always be a plant growing, ensuring a year-round food supply for deer. The oats and triticale sprout quickly, offering an immediate food source, while the winter peas thrive in cold temperatures. Turnips can adapt to various environments, and most of these plants will regrow effortlessly year after year.
Throw and Grow Clover
Clover is an affordable and easy-to-establish plant for throw-and-grow food plots. It serves as a consistent food source for deer, even after being grazed upon. However, clover doesn’t thrive during the hot summer months, so it’s advisable to supplement it with other plants. Basic maintenance, such as weed removal and proper watering, will support clover growth.
The Timing of Planting a Throw and Grow Food Plot
To ensure that deer have access to your additional food source during deer season, it is crucial to plant your throw and grow food plot early enough.
When to Plant a Throw and Grow Food Plot for Deer
For spring food plots, aim to plant your seeds between March and April. If you live in a warmer climate, April is a suitable month for planting. Fall food plots require planting in August for Zones 1 through 3, and for Zones 4 through 6, September or October is ideal.
How Long Does It Take for Throw and Grow to Grow?
The growth rate of your throw and grow food plot depends on the seed mix and climate conditions. Generally, signs of growth should appear within two weeks. Cereal seeds typically provide a food source within a month, while brassicas and other plants may take two to three months to fully develop.
Frequently Asked Questions about Throw and Grow Food Plots
Read on to find answers to commonly asked questions about attracting deer with throw-and-grow plots.
What is the Best No-Till Food Plot?
If you prefer to avoid tilling, consider seeds that can establish themselves without this step. Clover and chicory are excellent choices since they grow naturally in the wild and can thrive without tilling.
What Time of Year Should I Plant a Throw and Grow Food Plot?
For a spring food plot, aim to plant your seeds between March and May. To provide deer with an additional food source during the fall, plant between August and November.
Are Throw and Grow Foods Rich in Carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are a vital source of energy for wildlife. While deer naturally obtain carbs from nuts and acorns in the wild, you can supplement their intake by planting cereals or providing corn as part of their food plot.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can create an enticing throw and grow food plot that effectively attracts deer and provides them with essential nutrition year-round.