How to be Successful in Planting Food Plots
Here are some tips from the pros …

My name is Andy Whitcomb, owner and operator of Whitcomb’s Whitetail’s and Whitcomb’s Nursery. Being a fanatical hunter and nurseryman, I understand how these businesses go hand in hand. I have a degree in horticulture and am very knowledgeable about plants. I have done many years of research to help design the optimum nutrition program for my deer as well as those in the wild. A plant needs proper soil, fertilization, minerals, pH levels and adequate sunlight in order to thrive. If a plant lacks any of these key ingredients, it will not give your potential trophy buck the nutrition that he needs for maximum bone development and antler growth.

An important step before planting your food plot is deciding how big it should be. A single jug of our 9-variety perennial seed blend will do approximately 1/4 acre and last 4-6 years when properly maintained. Most of the plots we plant are between 1/4 and 1/2 acre. That is plenty for most areas! Some people think that the larger the food plot, the better, without realizing the amount of forage that 1/2 acre can produce. On a healthy food plot, 1/2 acre can produce up to two tons of forage in one year. Unless deer densities are very high, this is more than adequate. Excessively large plots only increase costs and time spent in maintenance without benefiting the deer herd. In addition, larger plots are more difficult to hunt.

Before planting your food plot, it is important to have a soil test done to find out the pH and any nutrient deficiencies. You can then spread the proper amounts of lime and fertilizer. You will also want to be sure to plant in areas that receive a minimum of 3-4 hours of sunlight each day.

After the plot is well established, you will want to mow it at 8-10 inches. Mowing helps keep protien levels high and also helps keep down unwanted weeds. A good rule of thumb is to mow or cut twice each year – June and August. Normally mowing can be skipped the first year. Following these food plot tips can help draw big bucks from miles around, and increase your hunting success.

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