No BS Food Plot: Tired of complicated food plots that drain your time and wallet? This guide cuts through the fluff, offering a straightforward approach to creating effective food plots for hunters and landowners. We’ll focus on practicality, maximizing results with minimal effort and resources. Forget the complex soil tests and expensive equipment; this is about getting your hands dirty and growing food that deer will love, all while keeping things simple and efficient.
This guide is designed for those with limited time, resources, or both. We’ll cover everything from site selection and preparation to seed selection, planting methods, fertilization, and maintenance. You’ll learn how to assess your land, choose the right crops, and implement simple techniques that yield impressive results. Prepare to transform your property into a thriving food source with our no-nonsense approach.
Introduction to No BS Food Plots
No BS Food Plots is a straightforward approach to establishing and maintaining food plots, prioritizing simplicity and effectiveness over complex methods. It focuses on achieving results with minimal time, resources, and unnecessary complications. The core principle is to maximize the return on investment, both in terms of effort and financial outlay, by focusing on proven techniques and practical applications.The no-nonsense philosophy emphasizes doing what works, eliminating unnecessary steps, and adapting to local conditions.
This approach prioritizes the needs of the target wildlife and the limitations of the land and the plot owner.
Target Audience, No bs food plot
The primary audience for No BS Food Plots includes:
- Hunters: Individuals seeking to attract and hold wildlife on their property for hunting purposes.
- Landowners with Limited Time: Those who have busy schedules and need a food plot strategy that doesn’t demand excessive time commitments.
- Landowners with Limited Resources: People working with smaller budgets and limited access to specialized equipment.
- Beginners: New food plotters looking for an easy-to-understand and implementable strategy.
- Those Seeking Efficiency: Individuals wanting to maximize their food plot’s impact while minimizing their workload.
This approach is beneficial for those who value tangible results over elaborate methods.
Site Selection and Preparation
Choosing the right location and preparing it properly are fundamental steps for a successful no-bs food plot. Careful planning at this stage will significantly impact the plot’s productivity and your overall enjoyment. This section provides practical guidance to get you started right.
Key Factors for Site Selection
Selecting the right location is crucial for maximizing your food plot’s effectiveness. Several factors need careful consideration.
- Sunlight: The amount of sunlight a location receives is critical for plant growth. Most food plot plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Observe the area throughout the day to determine how much sunlight it receives. Consider the angle of the sun and how shadows from trees or buildings may affect the plot at different times of the year.
Areas that receive full sun throughout the growing season are generally preferred.
- Soil Type: Soil type influences nutrient availability, water retention, and drainage. Loamy soils, which are a mix of sand, silt, and clay, are generally considered ideal as they provide good drainage and aeration while retaining sufficient moisture and nutrients. Sandy soils drain quickly but may require more frequent watering and fertilization. Clay soils retain water well but can become compacted, hindering root growth.
Assess the soil texture by squeezing a handful of moist soil; loamy soil will form a ball that crumbles easily.
- Accessibility: Easy access to the food plot is important for planting, maintenance, and harvesting. Consider the ease of reaching the plot with equipment like tractors, ATVs, or even hand tools. Proximity to a water source is also beneficial for irrigation, especially during dry periods. A plot that is difficult to reach will likely be neglected, reducing its effectiveness. Choose a location that allows for convenient access while also considering the impact on the wildlife you intend to attract.
Methods for Assessing Soil Health
Assessing soil health is vital to determine what amendments, if any, are needed. Here are some methods for a quick assessment.
- Visual Cues: Observe the soil’s appearance. Healthy soil is typically dark and crumbly, indicating good organic matter content. Pale or compacted soil may indicate deficiencies. Look for the presence of earthworms, which are a sign of a healthy soil ecosystem. Note the color, texture, and any signs of erosion.
- Simple Tests: Conduct simple tests to gain insights into the soil’s properties. The jar test helps determine the soil’s texture. Place a sample of soil in a jar with water and shake vigorously. Allow it to settle; sand will settle first, followed by silt, and finally, clay. The water infiltration test assesses drainage.
Dig a hole, fill it with water, and observe how quickly the water drains. Rapid drainage suggests sandy soil, while slow drainage indicates clay.
Land Clearing Techniques for Small Plots
Effective land clearing is essential for preparing a site, even with minimal equipment. These techniques can be employed for small plots.
- Manual Clearing: For small plots, manual clearing using hand tools is often the most practical approach. Tools such as axes, saws, loppers, and shovels are essential. Begin by removing any existing vegetation, including brush, saplings, and larger trees. Cut the vegetation as close to the ground as possible.
- Controlled Burning: In some areas, controlled burning can be an effective method for clearing vegetation. However, check local regulations before starting a fire. If permitted, clear a firebreak around the perimeter of the plot. Burn the vegetation on a calm day with sufficient moisture in the surrounding area to prevent the fire from spreading uncontrollably.
- Mechanical Assistance: If possible, consider using a small tractor or ATV with a brush hog or rotary cutter to clear larger areas of brush and weeds. These machines can significantly reduce the time and effort required for land clearing. If access is limited, consider renting a skid-steer with a brush cutter attachment for a more powerful approach.
Essential Tools and Equipment for Site Preparation
Having the right tools and equipment will make site preparation easier and more efficient. The following table lists essential items.
| Tool | Purpose | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Axe/Hatchet | Chopping small trees and branches. | Choose a well-balanced axe with a sharp blade. Consider the size of the plot when choosing the size of the axe. |
| Saw (Hand/Chain) | Cutting trees and larger branches. | A hand saw is suitable for smaller plots, while a chainsaw is more efficient for larger trees. Ensure proper safety equipment (gloves, eye protection, etc.) is used with a chainsaw. |
| Loppers | Cutting branches and smaller woody plants. | Choose heavy-duty loppers with long handles for leverage. |
| Shovel/Spade | Digging, turning soil, and moving soil. | A sturdy shovel with a pointed blade is useful for digging. A spade with a flat blade is useful for edging and leveling. |
| Rake | Leveling the soil, removing debris, and spreading seed. | A garden rake is suitable for smoothing the soil surface. A leaf rake is useful for removing smaller debris. |
| Wheelbarrow | Transporting soil, amendments, and other materials. | Choose a wheelbarrow with a sturdy frame and a good capacity. |
| Tractor/ATV (Optional) | Plowing, disking, and harrowing the soil. | If available, a tractor or ATV with appropriate attachments (plow, disk, harrow) can significantly reduce labor. |
| Soil Testing Kit (Optional) | Analyzing soil pH and nutrient levels. | Soil testing kits can provide basic information about soil health. Professional soil testing is more accurate but can be expensive. |
Seed Selection: The Essentials
Choosing the right seeds is crucial for a successful food plot. The selection process directly impacts deer attraction, forage production, and ultimately, the health of your local deer population. Careful consideration of factors like climate, soil conditions, and planting time is essential.
Top Food Plot Crops for Deer
Selecting the right crops is a foundational step in establishing a successful food plot. This involves considering regional variations and the specific needs of the deer herd. Here are some of the most reliable and easy-to-grow food plot crops for deer, considering different regions:
- Oats: Oats are a cool-season annual grass that is widely adaptable and provides excellent early-season forage.
- Clover: Clover is a legume that provides high-protein forage and improves soil health. It is a good choice for long-term food plots.
- Winter Wheat: Winter wheat is a hardy, cool-season grain that provides both forage and grain for deer.
- Soybeans: Soybeans are a warm-season annual legume that provides high-protein forage and grain. They are especially attractive to deer in late summer and fall.
- Corn: Corn is a warm-season annual grain that provides high-energy forage and grain. It is an excellent choice for attracting and holding deer, especially during the fall and winter.
Crop Advantages and Disadvantages
Each crop has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which must be weighed against the specific goals and conditions of your food plot.
- Oats:
- Advantages: Fast germination, high palatability, relatively inexpensive, and provides good early-season forage.
- Disadvantages: Susceptible to heavy grazing pressure, shorter growing season than some other crops, and can be less productive in dry conditions.
- Clover:
- Advantages: High protein content, improves soil fertility, relatively low maintenance, and provides long-term forage.
- Disadvantages: Requires proper soil pH and fertility, can be slow to establish, and may require weed control.
- Winter Wheat:
- Advantages: Hardy and drought-tolerant, provides both forage and grain, and relatively inexpensive.
- Disadvantages: Can be less palatable than other crops, requires good soil drainage, and may be susceptible to certain diseases.
- Soybeans:
- Advantages: High protein content, provides excellent late-season forage and grain, and can fix nitrogen in the soil.
- Disadvantages: Requires warm temperatures for germination and growth, susceptible to heavy grazing pressure, and may require insect control.
- Corn:
- Advantages: High energy content, provides excellent late-season forage and grain, and can attract and hold deer.
- Disadvantages: Requires fertile soil, can be expensive to plant and maintain, and susceptible to heavy grazing pressure.
Seed Variety Selection Based on Climate and Soil
Selecting the right seed varieties is crucial for optimizing food plot performance. The choice should be based on the local climate and soil conditions. For example, drought-tolerant varieties are ideal for arid regions, while cold-hardy varieties are necessary for areas with harsh winters. Soil tests should be performed to determine pH and nutrient levels. This information is essential to choose the seed varieties that will thrive in your specific location.
Consider the following example: If the soil test indicates a low pH, selecting a clover variety specifically bred for acidic soil conditions is crucial for successful establishment and growth.
Food Plot Crop Planting Guide
This table provides a general guide for planting various food plot crops. Specific recommendations may vary depending on your region and local conditions.
| Crop | Planting Time | Depth | Expected Yield |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oats | Late Summer/Early Fall | 1-2 inches | Varies, but can provide substantial forage early in the season. |
| Clover | Spring/Fall | 1/4 – 1/2 inch | Can provide multiple cuttings per year, depending on the variety and climate. |
| Winter Wheat | Late Summer/Early Fall | 1-2 inches | Yields vary, but typically provides both forage and grain. |
| Soybeans | Late Spring/Early Summer | 1-2 inches | Yield depends on variety, soil, and rainfall. |
| Corn | Late Spring/Early Summer | 1-2 inches | Yields vary, but can be significant, especially for grain production. |
Planting Methods: Simple and Effective
Planting methods are crucial for a successful no-bs food plot. Even with careful site selection, soil preparation, and seed selection, the wrong planting technique can lead to poor germination and ultimately, a failed food plot. This section focuses on simple, effective planting methods suitable for those without access to extensive equipment.
Broadcasting Seed and Its Suitability
Broadcasting seed is a straightforward method, ideal for no-bs food plots. It involves scattering seed evenly over the prepared soil surface. This method works best with small-seeded crops and for those who do not have access to specialized planting equipment. The key is to ensure good seed-to-soil contact after broadcasting.
Using a Hand-Held Spreader
A hand-held spreader simplifies broadcasting, ensuring a more even distribution of seed than manual spreading. These spreaders are inexpensive and easy to operate.
The hand-held spreader has a hopper for holding seeds, a rotating disc that distributes the seeds, and a handle for control. The operator walks across the prepared plot, turning a crank or squeezing a handle to release seeds onto the ground.
- Calibration: Before planting, calibrate the spreader to determine the appropriate setting for the seed type and desired seeding rate. This prevents under- or over-seeding.
- Loading: Fill the hopper with the seed, ensuring it is dry and free of clumps.
- Spreading Technique: Walk at a consistent pace, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure even coverage. Avoid spreading in windy conditions, which can skew seed distribution.
- Cleaning: After use, thoroughly clean the spreader to remove any remaining seeds and prevent corrosion.
Incorporating Seed into the Soil
After broadcasting, getting the seed into contact with the soil is essential for germination. Several methods can be used without specialized equipment.
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- Dragging: Use a drag, such as a section of chain-link fence weighted down with bricks or logs. This helps press the seed into the soil.
The image depicts a drag made from a section of chain-link fence. The fence is being pulled behind an ATV or tractor, with bricks placed on top to increase its weight and improve soil contact.
- Light Disking: A light disking can lightly incorporate the seed into the soil. However, be careful not to bury the seed too deeply, especially small-seeded crops.
The image illustrates a tractor pulling a disk harrow across a field. The disk harrow is breaking up the soil and lightly incorporating the seed.
- Cultipacking: A cultipacker, if available, is an excellent tool for firming the soil around the seed.
The image shows a cultipacker, a large roller with ridged wheels. As it is pulled across the field, it presses the soil and seed together, improving seed-to-soil contact.
Avoiding Common Planting Mistakes
Several common mistakes can ruin a food plot. Understanding and avoiding these pitfalls is key to success.
- Improper Seed-to-Soil Contact: Insufficient contact prevents germination. Always ensure seed is pressed into the soil.
- Planting Too Deeply: Small seeds, especially, should be planted near the surface. Planting too deep prevents emergence.
- Over-Seeding: Over-seeding wastes seed and can lead to overcrowding, resulting in poor plant growth. Follow recommended seeding rates.
- Planting at the Wrong Time: Plant at the optimal time for the chosen seed type and the local climate. This ensures the best chance for germination and growth.
- Poor Weed Control: Weeds compete with food plot plants for resources. Implement weed control measures before and after planting.
Fertilization
Fertilization is a crucial component of any successful food plot, ensuring plants receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and yield. While detailed soil analysis provides precise recommendations, a “no BS” approach focuses on simplifying the process, providing sufficient nutrients without getting bogged down in complexity. This section will guide you through the essentials of fertilization, enabling you to effectively nourish your food plots.
Basic Fertilizer Needs
Plants require a range of nutrients, primarily nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These are often represented on fertilizer bags as the N-P-K ratio, indicating the percentage of each nutrient by weight. Understanding these basic needs is fundamental to effective fertilization.
Determining Fertilizer Amounts Using General Guidelines
Without soil tests, general guidelines based on the target crop are helpful. These guidelines provide a starting point for fertilizer application.For example:
- For clover and alfalfa plots: Apply a fertilizer with a low nitrogen content, such as 0-20-20 or 0-10-30, at a rate of 200-300 pounds per acre. These legumes fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, so less nitrogen fertilizer is needed.
- For corn and other grasses: Apply a fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content, such as 10-10-10 or 19-19-19, at a rate of 300-400 pounds per acre. These crops benefit significantly from added nitrogen.
- For brassicas (e.g., turnips, radishes): Apply a balanced fertilizer like 10-20-10 or 13-13-13 at a rate of 300-400 pounds per acre. Brassicas require adequate phosphorus and potassium for root and bulb development.
Always consider the specific needs of the chosen food plot plants. Adjust the rates based on the soil type, the overall health of the plot, and the local climate conditions. It’s better to err on the side of caution and apply slightly less fertilizer than to over-fertilize, which can lead to nutrient runoff and environmental problems.
Application Methods for Fertilizer
Simple application methods are key to the “no BS” approach. These methods should be practical and effective.
- Broadcast Spreading: This method involves spreading fertilizer evenly over the plot surface. A broadcast spreader, either a handheld or tractor-mounted model, is typically used. This method is best for pre-planting and for topdressing established plots. Make sure the fertilizer is spread evenly to prevent “hot spots” where plants receive too much fertilizer.
- Drilling or Banding: When planting with a drill, fertilizer can be applied directly into the seedbed or banded to the side of the seed row. This method places the fertilizer closer to the plant roots, making nutrients readily available. This is often the most efficient method, especially for phosphorus and potassium.
- Timing: Apply fertilizer at the appropriate time for the crop’s growth stage. For example, applying fertilizer before planting provides nutrients for seedling establishment. Topdressing, or applying fertilizer to established plants, can be done during periods of active growth.
Organic vs. Synthetic Fertilizers
Both organic and synthetic fertilizers have their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing between them depends on your goals and preferences.
| Fertilizer Type | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Fertilizers |
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| Organic Fertilizers |
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Examples of organic fertilizers include compost, manure, and bone meal. Synthetic fertilizers include urea, ammonium phosphate, and potassium chloride. The choice depends on the individual food plot goals and the environmental considerations. For instance, in a no-till food plot, a slow-release organic fertilizer can provide sustained nutrition over the growing season, while in a highly intensive plot, a quick-release synthetic fertilizer might be more suitable to rapidly address nutrient deficiencies.
Maintenance: Keeping it Thriving
Maintaining a food plot is an ongoing process, crucial for ensuring its long-term productivity and benefits for wildlife. It’s not a one-time event but rather a commitment to observation, intervention, and adaptation. Consistent maintenance is what separates a struggling plot from a thriving one.
Scouting for Pests and Diseases
Regular scouting is essential to identify and address potential threats to your food plot’s health. Early detection of pests and diseases allows for timely intervention, minimizing damage and maximizing yield. This involves actively inspecting plants for signs of trouble.
Monitoring Growth and Identifying Problems
Tracking the growth of your food plot provides valuable insights into its health and performance. Observing plant development and comparing it to expected growth patterns can help you identify problems early on. This allows for proactive management strategies.
Managing Deer Pressure
Deer pressure can significantly impact the success of your food plot. When deer populations are high, they can quickly consume the available forage, hindering plant growth and overall plot effectiveness. Managing deer pressure involves strategies to balance deer browsing with plot productivity.
Tips for Long-Term Food Plot Success
Consistency is the cornerstone of long-term food plot success. Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, adapting to changing conditions, and learning from your experiences are key to creating and sustaining a thriving food plot.
- Regular Scouting: Inspect your plot at least weekly, paying close attention to leaf discoloration, insect activity, and any unusual growth patterns. Early detection of problems allows for timely intervention.
- Soil Testing: Conduct soil tests every 2-3 years to monitor nutrient levels and pH. Adjust fertilization and liming practices based on the results to maintain optimal soil health.
- Weed Control: Implement a consistent weed control program. This may involve pre-emergent herbicides, post-emergent herbicides, and/or mechanical methods like mowing or tilling.
- Fertilization: Apply fertilizers based on soil test recommendations. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to nutrient imbalances and environmental problems.
- Deer Management: Consider implementing deer management strategies such as hunting or supplemental feeding to control deer populations and reduce browsing pressure.
- Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all plot activities, including planting dates, fertilization, herbicide applications, and observations. This information will help you track progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Adaptation: Be prepared to adapt your management practices based on weather conditions, pest and disease outbreaks, and deer pressure. Flexibility is key to long-term success.
- Crop Rotation: Rotate crops every few years to improve soil health, reduce pest and disease pressure, and diversify forage availability.
- Persistence: Food plots are not always perfect; be patient and persistent. Learn from your mistakes and continue to refine your management practices.
Conclusion: No Bs Food Plot
In conclusion, the no BS food plot philosophy champions simplicity and effectiveness. By focusing on the essentials – smart site selection, the right crops, and practical techniques – you can create thriving food plots without the unnecessary complexities. This guide equips you with the knowledge and tools to succeed, providing a sustainable and rewarding approach to attracting and supporting wildlife.
Embrace the simplicity, put in the work, and enjoy the results. Your food plot, and the deer that benefit from it, will thank you.
