THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST SPRING FOOD PLOT MIXES FOR DEER IN NORTH CAROLINA

July 10, 2023

I. Introduction

As the brisk winter air gives way to the warmer, rejuvenating breath of spring, it’s time to turn our attention to one of the most critical aspects of deer management: spring food plots. For anyone invested in creating a sustainable and healthy deer population, whether you’re a hunter, a wildlife enthusiast, or a conservationist, understanding the value of a well-maintained food plot is paramount. In North Carolina, this task becomes especially important given the state’s diverse landscape and robust deer population.

Food plots, carefully selected areas planted with specific crops to provide nutritional supplementation and attract wildlife, play a pivotal role in deer management. They not only provide essential nutrition for deer, but also create a habitable environment that encourages a healthy and thriving deer population. This not only benefits the deer, but also enriches the entire ecosystem.

In this ultimate guide, we delve deep into the world of spring food plot mixes specifically tailored for the deer in North Carolina. We will guide you through the importance of spring food plots, the factors to consider when choosing a mix, reviews of some of the best mixes available, and valuable tips for planting and maintaining your food plots. We also touch on common mistakes to avoid, and how your efforts impact the wider deer population in the state.

Join us as we embark on this journey to create a sustainable, nutrient-rich haven for the deer in North Carolina.

III. Importance of Spring Food Plots

As the frost of winter begins to thaw, and the spring sun ushers in a new season of growth, it’s the perfect time for deer and wildlife enthusiasts in North Carolina to consider spring food plots. While food plots can be planted in different seasons, spring food plots hold a special place in deer management for several reasons:

Post-Winter Recovery:

Deer, especially in areas with harsh winters, often come out of the winter season in a nutritionally depleted state. This is due to the scarcity of food and the energy expended to keep warm. Spring food plots provide a much-needed source of nutrition, helping deer recover faster and get into good shape for the months ahead.

Antler Growth and Fawn Development:

Spring is a crucial time for deer. Bucks are growing their antlers, and does are nurturing their fawns. Having a nutritious food plot helps bucks grow healthier and bigger antlers. For does, a nutrient-rich diet is essential for producing high-quality milk for their fawns, leading to healthier fawns that have a higher survival rate.

Habitat Improvement:

By providing an additional source of food, spring food plots reduce the pressure on native vegetation. This allows the local flora to flourish, improving the overall habitat quality, not just for deer, but for other wildlife as well.

Attraction and Observation:

A well-maintained spring food plot serves as a magnet for deer, attracting them to specific areas. This is especially beneficial for hunters and wildlife observers as it increases the chances of sighting and studying deer.

To reap these benefits, it’s crucial to choose the right food plot mix for your spring planting. In the next section, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing a spring food plot mix for deer in North Carolina.

IV. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Spring Food Plot Mix

The success of your food plot heavily depends on the seed mix you choose to plant. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a spring food plot mix in North Carolina:

• Soil Type and pH Level: Different plants thrive in different soil types and pH levels. It’s important to test your soil before planting. Based on the results, you can choose a mix that suits your soil conditions and amend the soil if necessary.
• Available Sunlight: Consider the amount of sunlight your plot receives each day. Full sun plots have different plant options compared to plots in partial or full shade.
• Drainage: The ability of your plot to drain excess water will affect the types of plants you can grow. Some plants prefer well-drained soils, while others can tolerate waterlogged conditions.
• Deer Preferences in North Carolina: Last but not least, consider the preferences of the deer in your area. This might require a bit of trial and error, but over time, you’ll understand which plants the deer in your area prefer.

V. Review of the Best Spring Food Plot Mixes for Deer in North Carolina

Based on the factors discussed above, let’s review some of the best spring food plot mixes for deer in North Carolina:

1. Whitetail Institute Imperial Clover Mix: This clover mix is an excellent choice for spring planting. It’s high in protein, helps with antler growth, and is loved by deer. It can tolerate a wide range of soils and is very durable.
2. EVOLVED HARVEST 7 Card Stud: The Evolved Harvest 7 Card Stud is the ultimate food plot blend that offers a delectable and nutrient-rich feast for deer. This carefully crafted mixture combines the flavors and nutritional benefits of triticale, oats, winter peas, clover, chicory, turnip, and radishes, creating an irresistible blend.

3. BioLogic Full Draw: This blend includes New Zealand red and white clovers, alfalfa, winter peas, chicory, and brassicas. It’s a diverse blend that can attract and feed deer throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

4. Antler King Honey Hole Mix: Comprised of turnips and rape, this mix is a great attractant and provides essential nutrients for antler growth. It’s a fall mix that can be planted in late spring.

Remember, your local conditions might require a bit of experimentation with different mixes to find the one that works best for your land and deer. Once you’ve selected your mix, it’s time to get planting! In the next section, we’ll cover some tips for successful food plot establishment.

VI. Tips for Successful Food Plot Establishment

Planting a food plot involves more than just scattering some seeds on the ground. Here are some best practices to follow for successful establishment of your spring food plot:

• Soil Preparation: Begin by testing your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Depending on the results, you may need to add lime to raise the pH or fertilizer to provide necessary nutrients.
• Proper Seedbed Preparation: Clear the plot area of any existing vegetation. Use a tiller or a disc to break up the soil, creating a good seedbed for your plot mix.
• Correct Seeding: Each type of seed has an optimal planting depth. Larger seeds like peas and corn need to be planted deeper (around 1-2 inches) while smaller seeds like clover can be surface sown or lightly covered with soil.
• Adequate Watering: Ensure your food plot gets enough water, especially immediately after planting and during the early stages of growth.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep an eye out for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Timely intervention can save your plot from serious damage.

VII. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting Spring Food Plots

Even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when planting your spring food plots:

• Ignoring Soil Health: Neglecting to test and amend your soil can lead to poor plant growth, no matter how good your seed mix is.
• Planting at the Wrong Time: Timing is crucial when planting a food plot. Plant too early, and a late frost might kill your sprouts. Plant too late, and your plants might not mature in time to provide optimal nutrition for deer.
• Incorrect Seed Placement: Planting seeds too deep or too shallow can affect their ability to germinate and grow. Always follow the recommended planting depth for your chosen seed mix.
• Over-Fertilization: While it’s important to provide adequate nutrients for your plants, over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit or seed production.

Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly increase the success of your food plots. In the next section, we’ll discuss how well-managed food plots can impact the deer population in North Carolina.

VIII. Impact of Food Plots on Deer Population in North Carolina

Properly managed food plots can have a substantial positive impact on the deer population in North Carolina. Let’s look at some of the ways food plots contribute to deer health and management:

• Enhanced Nutrition: Food plots, especially those planted with a diverse mix of crops, provide deer with essential nutrients that might be lacking in their natural habitat. This improved nutrition can result in healthier deer with better body condition, larger antlers for bucks, and higher fawn survival rates for does.
• Population Control: Food plots can help manage deer populations by attracting deer to specific areas. This can reduce pressure on native vegetation in other parts of your property and help prevent overpopulation.
• Disease Management: By attracting deer to a centralized feeding area, food plots can assist in monitoring the health of the local deer population. This can help in early detection and management of diseases that may affect the herd.

However, it’s also important to note potential challenges. An abundance of food could potentially lead to an increase in deer population, which, if not managed correctly, could result in overpopulation and increased spread of diseases. In addition, food plots should be viewed as a supplement to, not a replacement for, the natural habitat.

Understanding the potential impacts and considerations associated with food plots will allow you to manage them effectively for the benefit of the deer population in North Carolina. In the following section, we will conclude our discussion on spring food plots.

IX. Conclusion

Spring food plots are a valuable tool for deer management in North Carolina, providing essential nutrition, managing population distribution, and even contributing to disease management. The selection of the right food plot mix, understanding local conditions, and adhering to best practices in food plot establishment are all key components to successful outcomes.

However, remember that a food plot is just one part of a comprehensive approach to wildlife management. In conjunction with natural habitat preservation and careful herd management, food plots can contribute significantly to a healthier, more robust deer population.

Ultimately, the success of your food plot journey will require observation, adaptability, and a deep passion for the wildlife you are nurturing. Whether you’re a hunter, a wildlife enthusiast, or a conservationist, your efforts contribute to the broader ecosystem’s health, ensuring that the majestic deer of North Carolina continue to thrive for generations to come.

As you prepare your spring food plots, embrace the opportunity not only to nourish the deer but also to learn, grow, and deepen your connection with the natural world.