Spring Planting Combinations for Deer and Turkey

Don Dietz

     Many hunters and wildlife enthusiasts fail to recognize the importance of spring food plots for deer and turkey.  Furthermore, those that do, fail to appreciate seed combinations that enhance nutrition for both species.  Granted, it is hard to beat fall/winter clover plantings for deer and turkey!  However, creative combinations of spring seeds will improve food stores in times of need, especially during the dog days of summer.  These plantings provide greenery for both deer and turkey as well as produce seeds and attract insects that are relished by adult turkeys and their poults.

     I like to use at least three kinds of seeds in my spring planting combinations.  Remember, regardless of the combination, always include at least one legume in the mix.  My favorite spring combination for deer and turkey is also beneficial to northern bobwhite.  That combination is catjang cowpea (iron and clay cowpea will also work), browntop millet, and buckwheat.  If I can’t get catjang, I go to my close second choice of Alyceclover. There are other great plants available for spring crops if the above are unavailable in your area.  Wildlife pea or turkey pea is another of the cowpeas that benefits deer, turkey and quail.  American jointvetch, another legume, is a great addition to spring food plots.

     You can plant as soon as all chance of frost is over and the ground is dry enough to work.  Depending on the region and weather this can range from late April to the first of June. If at all possible plant as early as you can to avoid summer droughts.  Although all of the plants are tough, they still need time to produce a strong root system in order to endure dry conditions.

Seeding rates alone can be reduced when planted in combination.  Here are my per acre recommendations: Catjang Cowpea – 15 lbs., Browntop millet – 20 lbs., Buckwheat – 40 lbs., Alyceclover – 30 lbs., Wildlife pea – 30 lbs., and American jointvetch – 20 lbs.

     Remember, Spring is the season when hungry fawns and poults first enter the world.  Their mothers’ food requirements are high this time of year as well.  Spring and summer is also the time of year bucks develop their antlers. The efforts you put forth in spring food plots will benefit them all!