Understanding the Appeal
The crunch of leaves underfoot, the crisp autumn air, and the anticipation of the hunt. For many hunters, these are the defining elements of deer season. But behind every successful hunt often lies careful preparation, and one of the most effective strategies is the implementation of strategically placed food plots. While various crops can be used, brassica food plots have surged in popularity for their ability to attract and nourish deer and other wildlife, especially during the critical late season. It’s estimated that over half of all food plots planted in the United States contain some form of brassica. However, simply throwing some seeds in the ground won’t guarantee success. Many hunters and land managers struggle to achieve the full potential of their food plots. This guide will provide you with the information you need to create thriving brassica food plots that will significantly enhance wildlife habitat, improve hunting opportunities, and contribute to the overall health of your land.
What are Brassicas?
So, what exactly are brassicas? These plants are members of the Brassicaceae family, more commonly known as the mustard family. They are characterized by their rapid growth, high nutritional value, and ability to thrive in cool weather conditions. This makes them an ideal choice for late-season food plots, providing a crucial food source when other forage is scarce. You’ve likely encountered brassicas in your own diet. Common examples used in food plots include kale, rape, turnips, radishes, swedes (also known as rutabagas), canola, and various hybrid blends specifically developed for wildlife attraction. These different varieties offer unique characteristics, allowing you to tailor your food plot to your specific goals and the needs of your local wildlife population.
The Power of Brassica Food Plots
Why are brassicas such a popular choice for food plots? The benefits are numerous and compelling.
First and foremost, they offer incredible nutritional value. Brassicas are packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, providing essential nutrients that help deer maintain their health and build fat reserves for the winter. This is particularly important during the rut and post-rut periods when deer are expending significant energy. A healthy deer herd translates to larger bucks and healthier does, ultimately contributing to better overall herd health.
Beyond their nutritional value, brassicas are incredibly attractive to deer and other wildlife. The palatable leaves and bulbs offer a tempting food source, drawing deer into your food plots and providing consistent hunting opportunities. Turkeys, rabbits, and even upland game birds can also benefit from brassica food plots.
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of brassicas is their cold tolerance. Unlike many other crops that wither and die with the first frost, brassicas continue to thrive in cold weather, providing a vital source of food during the late season when natural forage is scarce. This extended availability is crucial for attracting deer during the late hunting season and helping them survive the winter months.
Brassicas also offer benefits beyond wildlife nutrition. They can improve soil health through their deep root systems, which help to break up compacted soil and improve water infiltration. They also act as a natural cover crop, suppressing weeds and preventing soil erosion.
Finally, compared to some other food plot options, brassicas are relatively easy to establish and maintain. They are also cost-effective, making them an accessible option for hunters and land managers on a budget. Brassica seed is generally less expensive compared to perennial forage.
Planning for Success: The Foundation of Brassica Food Plots
The key to a successful brassica food plot lies in careful planning. Neglecting this crucial step can lead to disappointing results. Consider these key factors when designing your plot.
Site Selection
The location of your food plot is critical. Brassicas require ample sunlight, so choose a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal soil is well-drained and loamy. Heavy clay soils can hinder root development, while sandy soils may not retain enough moisture. Assess your soil carefully. If you have poor soil, consider amending it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient retention. Water availability is also a key element. Avoid areas that are prone to flooding, as this can drown your plants. If possible, select a site that has access to water for irrigation during dry periods, although brassicas are fairly drought tolerant once established. Ensure you can easily access the plot for planting and maintenance. Consider the size of your local deer herd and the area of land in which you are planting the food plot. The shape of the plot should maximize edge as that is where the food plot and surrounding woods meet.
The Importance of Soil Testing
Soil testing is arguably the most important step in food plot planning. A soil test will determine the pH and nutrient levels of your soil, allowing you to make informed decisions about lime and fertilizer applications. Collect soil samples from various locations within your plot and send them to a reputable soil testing lab. Follow the lab’s instructions for collecting and submitting samples. When you receive your soil test results, pay close attention to the pH level. Brassicas prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around six to seven). If your soil is too acidic, you will need to apply lime to raise the pH. The soil test will also provide recommendations for fertilizer based on the nutrient levels in your soil.
Choosing the Right Brassica Variety
Choosing the right brassica variety is critical to achieving your desired results. Consider your local climate and growing season length. Some brassica varieties are better suited to colder climates, while others thrive in warmer regions. Also consider your local deer density. If you have a high deer density, you may want to choose a variety that is more resistant to grazing pressure. Are you planting for deer, turkeys, rabbits, or all? What traits are you searching for? Are you focused on bulb or leaf production?
Common options include rape, known for early attraction and high palatability; turnips, which produce both bulbs and leaves and are cold tolerant; kale, which is extremely cold hardy and provides late-season forage; and radishes, which improve soil and provide early attraction. Hybrid brassicas are designed for a mix of leaf and bulb production.
Food Plot Size and Legal Considerations
Decide on food plot size based on the area of land available to you. Strategically place food plots in areas near bedding zones or travel corridors. Check your local laws regarding food plots and hunting over bait.
Planting: Bringing Your Brassica Food Plots to Life
Planting Time
Timing is everything when it comes to planting brassica food plots. The ideal planting window varies depending on your geographic location and climate. Aim to plant your brassicas in late summer or early fall, typically six to eight weeks before the first expected frost. This will give them enough time to establish before the cold weather arrives.
Site Preparation
Proper site preparation is essential for ensuring good germination and growth. Start by controlling existing weeds. This can be done with herbicides, tillage, or a combination of both. Glyphosate is a commonly used herbicide for controlling broadleaf weeds and grasses.
Tillage can help to create a smooth, even seedbed. Conventional tillage involves plowing, disking, and harrowing the soil. No-till planting is a method that minimizes soil disturbance. This method requires specialized equipment. Creating a firm, level seedbed is essential for good seed-to-soil contact.
Planting Methods
Brassicas can be planted by broadcasting or drilling. Broadcasting involves spreading the seed over the prepared soil. Drilling involves using a seed drill to precisely place the seed at the correct depth. Follow the recommendations on the seed package for seeding rate and depth.
Fertilizing and the Use of Cover Crops
Apply lime and fertilizer according to your soil test recommendations. Lime should be applied well in advance of planting, as it takes time to break down and adjust the soil pH. Fertilizer can be applied at planting or shortly after.
Consider using cover crops to improve soil health, suppress weeds, and provide additional forage. Oats or cereal rye can be mixed with brassicas.
Management and Maintenance for Thriving Brassica Food Plots
Once your brassica food plot is planted, it’s important to manage and maintain it to ensure its success.
Weed, Pest, and Grazing Control
Weeds can be a significant problem in brassica food plots. Control them with post-emergent herbicides or by mowing. Top-dress with fertilizer according to plant growth and soil tests. Monitor your food plot for pests such as aphids or flea beetles. Organic and chemical pest control options are available. Using fencing can help protect plants from overgrazing. Consider a system of rotational planting to improve soil health.
Troubleshooting Brassica Food Plot Problems
Poor Germination and Infestations
Poor germination can occur because of poor seed quality, improper planting depth, or a lack of moisture. Use high-quality seed, ensure proper planting depth, and irrigate if needed. If weeds are infesting the food plot, improve site preparation, use pre- and post-emergent herbicides, and mow.
Pests, Overgrazing, and Poor Growth
Monitor for pests and use pest control methods. Overgrazing can be prevented by increasing the food plot size. Poor growth can be combatted with soil tests and fertilizer.
Beyond Deer: Other Wildlife Benefits
Brassica food plots benefit more than just deer.
Attracting Additional Wildlife
Turkeys can be attracted with brassicas, and small game can benefit as well. Brassicas attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
Conclusion
Brassica food plots can significantly enhance wildlife habitat, improve hunting opportunities, and contribute to the overall health of your land. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create thriving brassica food plots that will attract deer and other wildlife throughout the hunting season. Remember that proper planning, planting, and management are essential for success. Start planning your brassica food plots now. Share your food plot experiences and ask any questions you might have. Now is the time to take steps to establish a successful brassica food plot.
