Introduction
Dreaming of drawing more deer, turkey, or other desired wildlife to your property? A well-planned food plot, especially one featuring the golden allure of corn, can be the key to turning that dream into reality. Food plots, dedicated areas planted with specific crops to provide sustenance and habitat, are invaluable tools for wildlife management. Among the many options available, corn stands out as a nutritional powerhouse, offering a high-energy food source, essential cover, and an irresistible attraction for a variety of animals. This guide will navigate the world of food plot corn seed, helping you select the best option for your specific needs, and providing the knowledge to establish a thriving corn food plot that will benefit wildlife for seasons to come.
Why Choose Corn for Your Food Plot?
Corn is more than just a pretty crop; it’s a vital resource for wildlife, especially during challenging times of the year. The nutritional value of corn is undeniable. It’s a carbohydrate-rich food source, providing the energy animals need to survive harsh winters, fuel the demands of the pre-rut breeding season, and recover after the rigors of the post-rut period. The high starch content provides essential calories, and the plant also contains some fats and other nutrients beneficial to overall health. Deer, turkey, rabbits, quail and many other species seek corn out for its concentrated energy source.
The attractiveness of corn to wildlife is another significant advantage. Deer, in particular, have a natural affinity for corn. Its sweet taste and readily digestible kernels make it a preferred food source. Beyond deer, corn also attracts other animals such as wild turkey, quail, and even smaller mammals like rabbits and squirrels, creating a diverse and vibrant ecosystem within your food plot. The presence of these varied species further enhances the overall habitat quality of your property.
Beyond food, corn offers excellent cover for wildlife. A dense stand of corn provides a safe haven from predators and protection from harsh weather conditions. Deer fawns, turkey poults, and other young animals can find refuge within the corn stalks, increasing their chances of survival. This protective cover is especially important during the birthing and nesting seasons when vulnerability is at its highest. Furthermore, the standing stalks provide shelter during blizzards or heavy snow, helping wildlife conserve energy during extreme weather events.
Finally, corn provides a sustained food source for an extended period. Unlike some food plot options that may only provide food for a short window, corn can remain standing throughout the fall and winter, providing a reliable source of nutrition for wildlife when other food sources are scarce. The durability of the stalks and kernels means that even after heavy snows or winds, a significant amount of corn remains available to wildlife, making it a valuable long-term investment in your food plot strategy.
Understanding Different Types of Food Plot Corn Seed
Choosing the right corn seed is crucial for the success of your food plot. Different types of corn seed offer varying benefits and require different management strategies. Understanding the distinctions between these options will allow you to make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs and environmental conditions.
Conventional Corn Seed
This is the traditional type of corn seed, representing varieties that have not been genetically modified. Conventional corn often boasts a lower initial cost, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. In ideal growing conditions, these varieties can also produce high yields. However, conventional corn requires more intensive management. Weed control typically involves multiple herbicide applications, and insect control may require insecticide treatments. These varieties are also more susceptible to pests and diseases, necessitating careful monitoring and timely intervention.
GMO Corn Seed (Roundup Ready/Glyphosate Tolerant)
Genetically modified organism (GMO) corn seed, specifically those labeled “Roundup Ready” or “Glyphosate Tolerant,” has been engineered to withstand applications of glyphosate-based herbicides. This technology allows you to control weeds effectively with a single herbicide, reducing competition for corn and simplifying management. The primary advantage is ease of weed control, allowing you to maintain a clean and productive food plot with minimal effort. However, GMO corn seed typically comes with a higher cost than conventional seed. There are also ongoing debates surrounding the use of glyphosate.
Insect-Resistant Corn Seed (Bt Corn)
Bt corn is another type of GMO seed that has been genetically engineered to produce a protein toxic to specific insect pests, such as corn borers and corn earworms. This technology reduces or eliminates the need for insecticide applications, protecting your corn from damage and reducing the environmental impact of your food plot. While Bt corn offers excellent insect protection, it also tends to be more expensive. There is also concern that insects could develop resistance to the Bt protein over time, diminishing its effectiveness.
Drought-Tolerant Corn Seed
In regions prone to dry conditions or periods of drought, drought-tolerant corn seed can be a game-changer. These varieties have been bred to withstand moisture stress and maintain productivity even under challenging conditions. Drought tolerance is achieved through various genetic traits that enhance water uptake, reduce water loss, or improve overall resilience to drought. Selecting drought-tolerant varieties ensures a more consistent yield, especially in areas with unpredictable rainfall patterns. These also tend to be more expensive, like the other types of GMO seeds.
Blend and Mixes Corn Seed
Instead of being just a single type of seed, some manufacturers create food plot corn mixes containing different strains, types, and even other crops entirely. These blends can provide multiple benefits, such as quick early growth alongside longer-term sustenance. However, different seed types within the blend can necessitate new management techniques, so read the seed information carefully before planting.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Corn Seed
The ideal corn seed for your food plot will depend on a variety of factors, including your climate, soil type, pest pressure, and budget. Careful consideration of these factors will help you make an informed decision that maximizes the success of your food plot.
Consider the climate and growing zone for the area you plan to use for your food plot. Selecting a corn variety that is suited to your local climate and growing season length is crucial. Corn varieties are typically classified by their “maturity days,” which indicates the number of days required for the corn to reach full maturity. Choose a variety with maturity days that align with the length of your growing season to ensure that the corn has enough time to mature before the first frost.
The soil type and drainage also play a vital role in corn growth. Different corn varieties have varying tolerances to different soil conditions. Consider your soil’s texture (e.g., sandy, clay), drainage, and pH level. Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient content and pH of your soil and amend it accordingly with lime or fertilizer to create optimal growing conditions for corn. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can stunt corn growth and increase susceptibility to disease.
Also consider the weed pressure and insect pressure in your area. Assess the level of weed pressure in your food plot area. If weed pressure is high, consider using Roundup Ready corn seed to simplify weed control. Identify the common insect pests in your area. If insect pests are a significant problem, consider using insect-resistant corn seed (Bt corn) to protect your crop.
Finally, think about the deer density, your budget, and your wildlife goals. High deer density can lead to overgrazing, preventing the corn from reaching maturity. If deer pressure is high, consider planting a larger area of corn or using fencing to protect the plants until they are more mature. Consider your overall budget for the food plot. Balance the cost of the seed with the potential benefits and your ability to manage the crop effectively. Do you have other wildlife besides deer in mind? Some corn varieties attract turkey or quail more than others.
Planting and Maintaining Your Corn Food Plot
Planting and maintaining a successful corn food plot requires careful planning and attention to detail. Proper site preparation, planting techniques, and ongoing maintenance are essential for maximizing yields and providing a valuable resource for wildlife.
Begin with proper site preparation by conducting a soil test and amending the soil with lime and fertilizer as needed. Tilling and no-till planting are both common and effective methods. The best method for your area depends on terrain, soil type, and more. Pay close attention to the recommended planting time for corn in your region. Corn requires warm soil temperatures to germinate properly. Plant after the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached a consistent degree. Plant seeds at the recommended depth and spacing for your chosen corn variety. Proper spacing allows for adequate sunlight and air circulation, promoting healthy plant growth.
Proper fertilization is crucial for maximizing corn yields. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and consider side-dressing with additional nitrogen fertilizer as the corn plants grow. Control weeds with pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Follow label instructions carefully and choose herbicides that are safe for wildlife. Monitor the corn plants for signs of insect damage. If insect pests become a problem, apply insecticides as needed, following label instructions carefully. Finally, water is important, especially during dry periods, watering may be necessary to ensure optimal corn growth. Consider fencing options to protect young plants from being devoured by wildlife before they have a chance to mature. Fencing can be particularly helpful in areas with high deer densities.
Troubleshooting Common Corn Food Plot Problems
Even with careful planning, challenges can arise when growing a corn food plot. Being able to identify and address common problems will help you keep your food plot thriving.
Poor germination can be caused by cold soil temperatures, planting too deep, or poor seed quality. Ensure that the soil temperature is warm enough before planting, plant at the recommended depth, and use high-quality seed. Weed infestation can out-compete corn plants for resources. Identify the common weeds in your area and use appropriate herbicides to control them. Insect damage can stunt corn growth and reduce yields. Monitor the plants for signs of insect damage and apply insecticides as needed. Nutrient deficiencies can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or other symptoms. Conduct a soil test to identify any nutrient deficiencies and apply appropriate fertilizers. Disease problems can cause leaf spots, stalk rot, or other symptoms. Choose disease-resistant corn varieties and practice good sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks. Overgrazing can prevent corn from reaching maturity. Plant a larger area of corn, use fencing to protect the plants, or consider using a deer repellent.
Conclusion
Creating a thriving corn food plot is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly benefit wildlife on your property. By understanding the different types of corn seed available, considering the factors that affect corn growth, and implementing proper planting and maintenance techniques, you can establish a valuable food source and habitat for deer, turkey, and other animals. While it requires knowledge, resources and effort, it is an incredibly rewarding endeavor. With the right knowledge and planning, you can create a thriving corn food plot that will attract wildlife to your property for years to come, turning your land into a haven for the animals you cherish.
