Chicory for Deer Food Plots A Forage Tale for the Wild

Chicory for deer food plots – ah, it’s like a whispered secret among the trees, a promise of green goodness for our antlered friends. Imagine a field, kissed by the sun, where chicory, that humble yet heroic plant, stands tall. Its leaves, a deep emerald, reaching for the sky, offering a feast of vitamins and minerals to the deer. This isn’t just about planting; it’s about weaving a tapestry of life, where deer find sustenance and we, the watchers, find joy.

Chicory, you see, is more than just a plant; it’s a survivor. It laughs in the face of drought, a testament to its resilience. It offers a helping hand in the form of its nutritional content, and the history of its use as a forage crop is a tale of how we’ve understood nature. From its humble beginnings, chicory has become a champion in the world of deer food plots, standing tall against the challenges of the seasons, promising to provide the best for the deer.

Chicory Overview for Deer

Chicory, a resilient perennial herb, stands out as a valuable component in deer food plots. Its ability to thrive in diverse conditions and provide substantial nutritional benefits makes it a popular choice for landowners seeking to enhance deer habitat. This overview delves into the fundamental aspects of chicory, from its botanical characteristics to its historical significance and nutritional prowess.

Plant Characteristics and Growth Habits, Chicory for deer food plots

Understanding chicory’s growth patterns is crucial for successful cultivation. This section Artikels the plant’s key features and life cycle.Chicory (

Cichorium intybus* ) is a herbaceous perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years. It typically establishes a deep taproot, allowing it to withstand drought conditions and access water and nutrients efficiently. The plant’s growth cycle can be described as follows

• Seedling Stage: After germination, chicory develops a rosette of leaves close to the ground.
• Vegetative Stage: The plant focuses on leaf and root development during its first year, building up energy reserves in its taproot.
• Flowering Stage: In subsequent years, chicory produces tall flower stalks, typically reaching 3 to 5 feet in height. These stalks bear blue, lavender, or white flowers that bloom in the morning and close in the afternoon.
• Lifespan: With proper management, chicory can persist in a food plot for 3 to 5 years, or even longer.

Chicory’s adaptability allows it to thrive in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained conditions. It also exhibits good tolerance to grazing, making it a suitable forage for deer.

Nutritional Value for Deer

The nutritional composition of chicory makes it a highly desirable forage for deer, particularly during critical periods like antler development and lactation. Its high protein content, along with essential vitamins and minerals, contributes significantly to deer health and growth.Chicory’s nutritional profile is characterized by the following elements:

• Protein Content: Chicory boasts a high protein content, often ranging from 15% to 25% on a dry matter basis. This is crucial for antler growth in bucks and milk production in does.
• Fiber Content: The fiber content is generally moderate, providing essential roughage for proper digestion.
• Mineral Content: Chicory is a good source of minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. These minerals are vital for bone development, muscle function, and overall health.
• Vitamin Content: Chicory contains vitamins, including Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which are essential for various physiological processes.

Furthermore, chicory contains secondary compounds like inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can improve digestive health. The overall nutritional value makes chicory a superior forage compared to many other options. For example, in a study comparing chicory to alfalfa, deer showed a preference for chicory due to its palatability and nutrient density.

History of Chicory as a Forage Crop

The history of chicory’s use as a forage crop is rooted in its origins and its gradual adoption in agriculture. Its versatility and nutritional benefits have made it a valued component of farming practices.The story of chicory as a forage crop can be summarized by these key points:

• Origins: Chicory is native to Europe and Asia, where it has been used for centuries. It was initially cultivated for its roots, which were used as a coffee substitute.
• Early Adoption: The use of chicory as a forage crop began to emerge in the 18th and 19th centuries. Farmers recognized its potential for livestock grazing.
• Spread to North America: Chicory was introduced to North America, where it gradually gained popularity as a forage crop. Its ability to grow in diverse climates contributed to its widespread adoption.
• Modern Use: Today, chicory is widely used in agriculture and wildlife management. It is a key component of food plots and pasture mixes, providing valuable forage for deer and other grazing animals.

The development of improved chicory varieties, specifically bred for higher yields and palatability, has further enhanced its value as a forage crop. These modern varieties have increased the appeal of chicory to farmers and wildlife managers.

Benefits of Chicory in Deer Food Plots

Chicory, a robust perennial herb, offers a compelling array of advantages when incorporated into deer food plots. Its unique characteristics provide significant benefits over more common forage options, impacting deer health, plot longevity, and overall habitat management. Understanding these benefits is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of a food plot program.

Superior Forage Compared to Alternatives

Chicory distinguishes itself from other popular food plot choices like clover and alfalfa through several key attributes. It often outperforms these options in specific environmental conditions, leading to better deer nutrition and plot performance.

• Drought Tolerance: Chicory possesses a deep taproot system, allowing it to access water sources unavailable to shallow-rooted plants like clover and alfalfa. This resilience makes it an excellent choice in regions prone to dry spells.
• Nutritional Value: Chicory offers a high crude protein content, often exceeding that of clover and alfalfa, particularly during the crucial antler-growing season. This higher protein intake directly contributes to enhanced antler development in bucks. Chicory also contains a significant amount of minerals, essential for overall deer health.
• Palatability and Digestibility: Deer readily consume chicory, and its digestibility is typically higher than that of alfalfa, meaning deer can extract more nutrients from each bite. This leads to improved body condition and overall vigor.
• Longevity: While clover and alfalfa can be relatively short-lived in certain environments, chicory is a perennial that can persist for several years, reducing the need for frequent replanting and the associated costs.

Impact of Drought Resistance on Plot Durability

Chicory’s drought resistance is a critical factor in its ability to maintain plot productivity, especially in areas experiencing water scarcity. This characteristic contributes significantly to the long-term success of food plots.

• Prolonged Forage Availability: During drought conditions, chicory continues to produce forage when other plants wither and die. This provides deer with a consistent food source throughout the critical summer and fall months.
• Reduced Replanting Frequency: The ability to withstand drought stress means chicory plots require less frequent replanting compared to less resilient forage options. This saves time, labor, and resources.
• Enhanced Soil Health: Chicory’s deep root system improves soil structure and aeration, which can, in turn, improve water infiltration and reduce soil erosion. This contributes to the long-term health of the food plot.

Contribution to Antler Growth and Deer Health

The nutritional profile of chicory directly benefits deer, particularly during antler development and overall health. The high levels of protein and minerals in chicory are key to this.

• Enhanced Antler Development: The elevated crude protein content in chicory provides the essential building blocks for antler growth. Bucks consuming chicory-rich diets exhibit larger and more robust antlers.
• Improved Body Condition: The readily digestible nutrients in chicory contribute to improved body condition scores in deer. Healthy deer are more resilient to disease and stress, and they are more likely to reproduce successfully.
• Increased Fawn Survival: Does in good physical condition, supported by a nutritious diet like that provided by chicory, are more likely to produce healthy fawns with higher survival rates.
• Mineral Supplementation: Chicory provides essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which are critical for antler growth, bone development, and overall physiological function.

Chicory Varieties and Selection

Choosing the right chicory variety is crucial for a successful deer food plot. Several factors influence the selection process, including regional climate, soil conditions, and, of course, the deer’s preference for palatability. Careful consideration of these elements will maximize the effectiveness of your food plot and ensure a healthy, attractive forage source for deer.Understanding the different varieties and their characteristics is the first step in making an informed decision.

Chicory Variety Traits

Different chicory cultivars offer varying levels of cold hardiness and palatability. These differences stem from genetic variations and breeding programs that target specific traits. Some varieties are specifically bred for enhanced drought tolerance, while others excel in colder climates. Palatability, or the attractiveness of the plant to deer, can also vary, impacting the plot’s overall effectiveness. Deer often exhibit preferences, and selecting a highly palatable variety is key to encouraging consistent browsing.

• Cold Hardiness: Some chicory varieties are more tolerant of freezing temperatures, making them suitable for northern climates. For example, ‘Puna’ chicory, developed in New Zealand, is known for its good cold tolerance.
• Palatability: The taste and texture of chicory vary. Deer often prefer varieties with higher sugar content and tender leaves.
• Drought Tolerance: Certain cultivars have developed deeper root systems, enhancing their ability to withstand dry conditions.
• Growth Habit: Chicory’s growth habit influences its suitability for different planting scenarios. Some varieties grow more upright, while others spread more horizontally.

Chicory Cultivar Performance

The performance of chicory cultivars can vary significantly depending on the soil type and climate. Clay soils, for instance, can hinder root development, potentially impacting plant vigor. Conversely, well-drained, fertile soils typically support optimal growth. Similarly, climate plays a crucial role; varieties adapted to warmer regions may struggle in colder areas, and vice versa. Proper soil testing and regional climate data are essential to make informed choices.

• Soil Type Impact: Well-drained, loamy soils generally support better chicory growth compared to heavy clay soils, which can impede root penetration and aeration.
• Climate Influence: Chicory’s growth is greatly influenced by temperature and rainfall. Varieties selected for temperate climates may struggle in extremely hot or cold environments.
• Regional Adaptation: Understanding the specific climate and soil conditions of the planting site is critical. Some cultivars are better adapted to specific regions than others. For example, ‘Forage Feast’ chicory is a good option for the Southeast United States due to its heat tolerance.

Popular Chicory Varieties

Selecting the right chicory variety involves careful consideration of its traits and suitability for the planting region. The following table showcases some popular options, highlighting their key features.

Variety Name	Growth Habit	Palatability	Recommended Planting Region
Puna	Upright	High	Northern and Southern US
Forage Feast	Semi-upright	High	Southeast US
Grouse	Upright	Moderate	Midwest US
Choice	Upright	High	Wide range, adaptable

Chicory Plot Management

Managing chicory plots is crucial for maximizing forage production and ensuring the longevity of your deer food plot. Proper management involves a combination of mowing, fertilization, and pest and disease control, all tailored to the specific needs of the chicory plants. Effective management will not only provide a consistent food source for deer but also contribute to the overall health and productivity of the plot.

Mowing and Forage Production

Mowing is an essential practice in chicory plot management. It encourages new growth, prevents the chicory from becoming overly mature and potentially less palatable, and helps to control weeds.

• Timing of Mowing: The ideal time to mow chicory is when the plants reach a height of approximately 12-18 inches. Avoid mowing during periods of extreme heat or drought, as this can stress the plants.
• Mowing Height: Set the mower to a height of 6-8 inches. This allows the chicory to regrow quickly while leaving enough foliage for photosynthesis.
• Frequency of Mowing: Depending on the growth rate and weed pressure, mow the plot every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Monitor the plot regularly and adjust the mowing schedule as needed.
• Benefits of Mowing: Mowing promotes denser growth, increases forage production, and helps to maintain the palatability of the chicory for deer. It also suppresses weed growth, reducing competition for resources.

Fertilization Practices

Fertilization is another critical component of chicory plot management. Chicory is a heavy feeder and requires adequate nutrients to thrive and provide optimal forage for deer. Proper fertilization will enhance growth, improve forage quality, and extend the productive life of the plot.

• Soil Testing: Before applying any fertilizer, conduct a soil test. This will provide information on the existing nutrient levels in the soil and help determine the specific fertilizer needs of the chicory.
• Fertilizer Types: Based on the soil test results, select the appropriate fertilizer. Typically, chicory benefits from a balanced fertilizer that includes nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). A common recommendation is a fertilizer with a ratio like 10-20-10 or 13-13-13, where the numbers represent the percentage of N-P-K respectively.
• Application Rates: The application rate will vary depending on the soil test results and the specific fertilizer used. As a general guideline, apply 300-500 pounds per acre of a balanced fertilizer, like 10-20-10, at planting. Top-dress with 100-200 pounds of nitrogen per acre annually in early spring or after mowing.
• Timing of Fertilization: Apply fertilizer at planting and again in early spring to provide nutrients for the growing season. Top-dressing with nitrogen after mowing can also be beneficial.
• Fertilizer Placement: Broadcast the fertilizer evenly across the plot. If planting, incorporate the fertilizer into the soil during seedbed preparation.
• Example: Consider a soil test showing low phosphorus levels. The recommended fertilizer might include a higher percentage of phosphorus (the middle number in the N-P-K ratio). For instance, a fertilizer like 10-30-10 would be suitable. A real-world example could be a farmer in Iowa, who, after soil testing, found low potassium and increased forage production by using a fertilizer with higher potassium levels.

Addressing Common Diseases and Pests

Chicory, like any crop, can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are essential to prevent significant damage to the plot. Early detection is key to effective control.

• Common Diseases:
  • Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes small, circular, brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, ensure adequate air circulation, avoid overhead irrigation, and consider using a fungicide if the infection is severe.
  • Crown Rot: This disease, often caused by excessive moisture, can lead to the rotting of the crown of the plant. Proper drainage and avoiding overwatering are crucial for prevention.
• Common Pests:
  • Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can infest chicory plants, causing stunting and yellowing of the leaves. Control aphids with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.
  • Slugs and Snails: These pests can feed on the leaves, especially in moist conditions. Use slug bait or traps to control their populations.
• Monitoring and Control:
  • Regular Scouting: Inspect the chicory plot regularly for signs of diseases or pests. Look for discolored leaves, unusual growth patterns, or the presence of insects.
  • Cultural Practices: Implement cultural practices like proper spacing, adequate air circulation, and good drainage to minimize the risk of diseases and pest infestations.
  • Chemical Control: If diseases or pests are present, consider using appropriate pesticides or fungicides. Always follow label instructions carefully. An example could be a deer farmer in Georgia using a fungicide to control leaf spot, which improved the health of their chicory plot.

Chicory Integration with Other Forage Species

Integrating chicory with other forage species in deer food plots is a cornerstone of effective wildlife management, optimizing both nutritional value and plot longevity. This approach leverages the strengths of different plants to create a more resilient and productive food source, ultimately benefiting deer populations. Strategic mixing allows for a diverse diet, improved soil health, and extended grazing periods.

Benefits of Combining Chicory with Other Forage Species

Combining chicory with other forages provides several advantages over monoculture plantings. This strategy enhances the overall effectiveness of a deer food plot.

• Nutritional Diversity: Different plants offer varied nutrient profiles. Chicory is rich in minerals and protein, while clovers provide nitrogen fixation and palatable forage. Mixing creates a more balanced diet for deer.
• Extended Grazing Season: Different species mature at different times. This ensures a consistent food supply throughout the growing season.
• Improved Soil Health: Legumes like clover fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for fertilizers. Grasses help control erosion. Chicory has a deep taproot, improving soil structure.
• Increased Plot Resilience: Mixed plots are more resistant to diseases and pests than monocultures. If one species struggles, others can compensate.
• Enhanced Palatability: Combining palatable species like clover with the slightly bitter chicory can improve overall deer preference for the plot.

Comparing and Contrasting Chicory Combinations

Selecting the right combination of chicory with other plants requires careful consideration of factors such as soil type, climate, and desired grazing periods. Each combination offers unique benefits and drawbacks.

• Chicory and Clover: This is a common and highly effective combination. Clover, particularly white or red clover, provides high palatability and nitrogen fixation. The advantages include increased protein content and soil improvement. Disadvantages can include clover susceptibility to certain diseases and insects. This mix is ideal for areas with well-drained soil.

• Chicory and Grasses (e.g., Timothy, Orchardgrass): This combination offers good forage production and erosion control. Grasses provide bulk and cover. The advantages include improved soil stability and tolerance to heavy grazing. Disadvantages can include lower overall protein content compared to clover mixes. This mix is suitable for areas with moderate grazing pressure.

• Chicory, Clover, and Grasses: This is a more complex mix, providing a well-rounded forage base. It combines the benefits of all three plant types: nitrogen fixation from clover, bulk from grasses, and nutritional value from chicory. Advantages include high nutritional value, soil health improvement, and extended grazing. Disadvantages can include the need for careful management to prevent any single species from dominating.
• Chicory and Brassicas (e.g., Rape, Radish): While not a typical long-term mix, brassicas can be included for a late-season food source. The advantages are high yields and late-season forage. Disadvantages include brassicas’ shorter lifespan and potential for causing bloat if not managed properly. This combination is often used as a “nurse crop” for establishing chicory.

Successful Chicory-Based Food Plot Mixes

Several successful chicory-based food plot mixes are commonly used by land managers and hunters. These examples demonstrate the practical application of combining chicory with other forages.

• Mix 1: Chicory (20%), White Clover (40%), Red Clover (20%), Timothy (20%)
  -This mix provides a balance of palatability, protein, and soil improvement.
• Mix 2: Chicory (30%), Ladino Clover (40%), Orchardgrass (30%)
  -Ladino clover offers high palatability, while orchardgrass provides cover and bulk.
• Mix 3: Chicory (40%), Crimson Clover (30%), Annual Ryegrass (30%)
  -This mix is suitable for a shorter-term plot, offering quick establishment and high forage production. Crimson clover provides nitrogen fixation, and annual ryegrass offers rapid growth.
• Mix 4: Chicory (25%), Red Clover (35%), Timothy (40%)
  -This combination is designed for longevity and provides a consistent food source.
• Mix 5: Chicory (30%), White Clover (30%), Rape (20%), Winter Wheat (20%)
  -This mix provides early spring forage from the winter wheat, along with a late-season boost from rape.

Chicory and Deer Behavior

The interaction between deer and chicory is a fascinating dance of preference, palatability, and seasonal changes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of chicory in deer food plots and ultimately supporting a healthy deer population. Deer’s behavior is significantly influenced by the nutritional value and taste of available forages, making chicory a particularly attractive option when managed effectively.

Deer’s Preference for Chicory Compared to Other Forages

Deer don’t treat all plants equally. Their choices are driven by factors like nutritional content, digestibility, and taste. Chicory often wins out in the deer’s menu selection.Chicory offers several advantages that contribute to its appeal:

• High Nutritional Value: Chicory boasts higher levels of protein and minerals compared to many other common forages like grasses. This is especially beneficial during antler growth and lactation.
• Digestibility: Deer can easily digest chicory, extracting more nutrients from each bite. This contrasts with some grasses that can be tougher and less digestible.
• Palatability: Chicory has a distinct, slightly bitter taste that deer often find appealing, particularly in the early growing stages. This bitterness is due to compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which can also have some anti-parasitic properties.
• Persistent Forage: Chicory is a perennial, offering a consistent food source throughout the growing season, unlike some annual forages that may only be available for a short time.

Deer will often select chicory over less nutritious or less palatable forages, especially when other food sources are limited. This preference makes chicory a valuable component of any deer food plot strategy.

Palatability Changes of Chicory Throughout the Growing Season

The appeal of chicory to deer isn’t static; it fluctuates with the plant’s growth stage and environmental conditions. Understanding these shifts is key to optimizing grazing management.Several factors influence the palatability:

• Early Growth: Young, tender chicory leaves are highly palatable. This is when the plant is at its most nutritious and digestible. Deer will often graze these young plants heavily.
• Flowering Stage: As chicory matures and begins to flower, the leaves can become tougher and the taste can become more bitter. Deer may reduce their grazing on flowering plants. However, even mature chicory retains a level of palatability.
• Environmental Stress: Drought or other environmental stresses can impact palatability. Stressed plants may become less appealing to deer.
• Frost: A light frost can actually increase the palatability of chicory, as it can cause the plant to release sugars.

Managing grazing pressure and ensuring proper soil conditions can help maintain chicory’s palatability throughout the growing season. Strategic planting and rotational grazing can also help. Consider that deer’s needs also change throughout the year. Their nutritional requirements are highest during antler growth (for bucks) and lactation (for does). Planting chicory to align with these periods can maximize its benefits.

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Illustration of a Deer Grazing in a Chicory Food Plot

Imagine a sun-drenched field, a testament to careful planning and diligent labor. The chicory, a vibrant green carpet, stretches across the landscape, interspersed with the darker green of companion forages. A mature whitetail buck, its antlers still in velvet, stands gracefully amidst the plants.The buck’s posture is relaxed, yet alert. Its head is lowered, its dark brown eyes focused on the chicory leaves.

The buck’s body is a picture of health, its coat sleek and shiny. Its ears, constantly swiveling, pick up the slightest sounds of potential danger. The buck is carefully selecting the tenderest leaves, using its strong, flexible lips to pluck them.The chicory plants themselves are in various stages of growth, from young, tender shoots to more mature plants. The leaves are long and lance-shaped, with slightly serrated edges.

The stems are sturdy and upright, supporting the plant’s growth. Some plants are beginning to send up flower stalks, adding a touch of color to the scene. The contrast between the vibrant green of the chicory and the rich brown of the fertile soil creates a visually appealing and inviting environment. This visual scene emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between the deer and the chicory, a carefully cultivated haven of nourishment and well-being.

Cost Analysis of Chicory Food Plots

Understanding the financial implications of establishing and maintaining a chicory food plot is crucial for effective deer management. A thorough cost analysis helps landowners make informed decisions, optimizing resource allocation and maximizing the return on investment. This section provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses associated with chicory food plots, compares their cost-effectiveness with other forage options, and summarizes the average annual costs.

Cost Breakdown for Establishing Chicory Food Plots

The initial investment in a chicory food plot involves several key expenses. These costs vary depending on factors such as plot size, soil conditions, and the availability of equipment.

• Seed Costs: Chicory seed prices fluctuate based on variety and market demand. Expect to spend roughly $8 to $15 per pound. The seeding rate is typically 4-6 pounds per acre, so the initial seed cost for a 1-acre plot ranges from $32 to $90.
• Soil Testing and Amendments: Before planting, soil testing is essential to determine nutrient deficiencies and pH levels. A soil test costs around $25-$50 per sample. Based on the results, lime and fertilizer may be needed. Lime costs can vary significantly depending on the application rate, but a common application might cost $50-$150 per acre. Fertilizer expenses, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, could range from $50 to $200 per acre, depending on the soil test recommendations.

• Site Preparation: Preparing the soil for planting involves several steps, including clearing existing vegetation, tilling, and leveling the ground. These tasks can be performed using rented equipment or by hiring a contractor. Rental costs for a tractor and disc harrow might be $50-$150 per day, while hiring a contractor could cost $100-$300 per acre.
• Planting: Chicory can be planted using a broadcast seeder or a drill. Broadcast seeding is generally less expensive, with the cost of a hand-held seeder being relatively low. Drill planting requires specialized equipment and can be more expensive. The cost of planting can vary depending on the method used and the size of the plot.
• Labor: Labor costs depend on whether the landowner performs the work or hires assistance. If the landowner handles the tasks, the cost is reflected in their time. If hiring labor, expect to pay hourly rates, which vary by location.

Comparing Chicory’s Cost-Effectiveness with Other Forage Options

Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of chicory requires comparing it with other popular forage options for deer, such as clover, alfalfa, and annual food plots. This comparison should consider both the initial establishment costs and the ongoing maintenance expenses over a multi-year period.

• Clover: Clover, like chicory, is a perennial forage. Its establishment costs are similar, but clover may require more frequent mowing or herbicide applications to control weeds. Its lifespan is generally shorter than chicory, potentially requiring more frequent replanting.
• Alfalfa: Alfalfa is a highly productive perennial forage, but it is more expensive to establish than chicory or clover. It also requires more intensive management, including frequent cutting and specialized equipment. Alfalfa is not as tolerant of heavy grazing as chicory.
• Annual Food Plots (e.g., oats, wheat, rye): Annual food plots are typically less expensive to establish initially, but they need to be replanted every year. This results in higher annual costs compared to perennial forages. They offer quick food but lack the long-term benefits of perennials.

Average Annual Costs for a 1-Acre Chicory Food Plot

The following blockquote summarizes the average annual costs associated with maintaining a 1-acre chicory food plot. These figures are estimates and can vary based on location, management practices, and market prices.

Average Annual Costs (1-Acre Chicory Food Plot):

• Seed (Re-seeding/Over-seeding): $10 – $50 (depending on need)
• Fertilizer: $50 – $150 (based on soil tests and needs)
• Herbicide (Weed Control): $20 – $75 (depending on the need)
• Mowing/Weed Control: $25 – $100 (depending on the frequency and method)
• Labor (if applicable): $0 – $150 (or the equivalent of your time)
• Total Annual Cost: $105 – $525 (This is a range, actual costs will vary)

End of Discussion: Chicory For Deer Food Plots

So, as the sun sets on this tale of chicory and deer, we see the importance of choosing wisely. From the careful selection of varieties to the art of plot management, it all weaves together to create a landscape of abundance. Chicory, with its drought-defying spirit and nutritional prowess, is more than just a forage; it’s a symbol of our dedication to the wild, a reminder that even the smallest plant can make the biggest difference.

And so, the story of chicory in deer food plots continues, written with every seed planted, every deer grazed, and every heart that appreciates the beauty of nature.