best late summer food plot for deer

3 min read 01-02-2025

Late summer is the crucial time to plant food plots that will entice deer throughout the fall hunting season. Choosing the right crop can mean the difference between a successful hunt and an empty freezer. This guide will explore the best late summer food plot options for attracting and retaining deer, focusing on maximizing their nutritional value and palatability during this vital period.

Understanding Deer Nutritional Needs in Late Summer

As summer transitions into fall, deer's nutritional needs shift. They are building body fat reserves for the upcoming winter, requiring high-energy, easily digestible foods. The best late summer plots focus on providing these crucial nutrients. We'll explore options that deliver carbohydrates, proteins, and essential minerals to keep deer healthy and attracted to your hunting area.

Key Considerations for Late Summer Planting:

Maturity Time: Select crops that mature quickly enough to provide a substantial food source before the first frosts.
Soil Conditions: Assess your soil's pH and nutrient levels to choose plants that thrive in your specific conditions. Soil testing is highly recommended.
Deer Preferences: Consider deer's natural foraging habits in your region. What plants do they gravitate towards naturally?
Weed Control: Implement a robust weed control strategy before and after planting to maximize yield and prevent competition for nutrients.

Top Late Summer Food Plot Choices:

1. Winter Rye: The Workhorse of Fall Hunting

Winter rye is a highly adaptable and productive choice for late summer planting. It provides excellent forage throughout the fall and even into early winter, offering carbohydrates crucial for fat storage. Its fast germination and growth make it ideal for late-season planting.

Pros: High yield, cold-hardy, readily available, relatively inexpensive.
Cons: Can be susceptible to certain diseases if not properly managed.

2. Cereal Rye: A Quick Energy Boost

Cereal rye matures even faster than winter rye, making it a great option for very late plantings. It offers a rapid source of carbohydrates to attract deer quickly.

Pros: Extremely fast growth, high energy content.
Cons: Lower overall yield compared to winter rye.

3. Brassicas (Turnips, Rape, Kale): A Nutritional Powerhouse

Brassicas offer a unique nutritional profile, providing essential minerals and proteins alongside carbohydrates. They are particularly attractive to deer in the late season, adding variety to their diet. Plant these earlier in the late summer for optimal growth.

Pros: High nutritional value, attractive to deer, improves soil health.
Cons: Can be susceptible to insect pests and diseases; requires proper soil preparation.

4. Chicory: A Long-Lasting Forage

Chicory is a perennial plant that offers long-lasting forage, providing deer with nutrients throughout the fall and even into the next growing season. Though it doesn't offer the same rapid growth as the other options, its longevity makes it a worthwhile investment.

Pros: Long-lasting forage, high nutritional value, drought-tolerant.
Cons: Slower establishment compared to annuals.

Optimizing Your Late Summer Food Plot:

Beyond crop selection, several practices enhance the success of your late summer food plot:

Soil Preparation: Proper tilling and fertilization are paramount for successful germination and growth.
Weed Control: Pre-emergent herbicides before planting and timely weed management during growth are critical for maximizing yield.
Plot Location: Choose a location with good sunlight, access to water, and proximity to deer trails.
Plot Size: While a larger plot is generally better, even smaller plots can be effective if strategically placed.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best late summer food plot hinges on several factors, including your climate, soil conditions, and the deer's preferences in your region. By carefully selecting the right crop and employing best practices for plot management, you can significantly improve your chances of attracting and retaining deer, leading to a more successful fall hunting season. Remember to always check local regulations regarding hunting and food plot establishment before commencing any work.