Ernst Conservation Seeds

Wildlife Food Plot Sites

WILDLIFE FOOD PLOT SITES are generally small clearings in wooded areas or farmland. These sites typically receive at least four hours of sunlight a day. Planting dates differ between annual and perennial mixes; however, most are designed for spring or fall planting.

Examples of WILDLIFE FOOD PLOT SITES:

  • Woodland openings
  • Remote areas of large residential lots
  • Abandoned fields
  • Timber harvest and loading areas

Site Preparation

Eradicate existing vegetation by having a licensed spray technician apply an approved herbicide, such as glyphosate (Roundup?), or tilling the weeds into the soil. Good pre-seeding weed control may require repeated tilling or spraying two applications of glyphosate (at least two weeks apart). Once the weeds have been controlled, add lime or fertilizer as recommended by soil analysis. Lime and fertilizer can be incorporated into the soil using a tiller. After amendments are incorporated, smooth out the soil to develop a good seedbed. If broadcasting the seed, run a drag or ATV over the site to help incorporate the seed into the soil (approximately 1/4”-1/2” deep). With adequate temperature and moisture, the seed should begin to germinate within about two weeks.

Habitat: Best if you can select well-drained or moderately well-drained sites in woodland openings (ideally near water sources).

Fertility: Check your soil pH and fertility. The addition of lime to the food plot site can improve the nutritional value of vegetation which, in turn, is beneficial to wildlife.

Seeding Method: Hand seed, broadcast, or drill seed.

General Maintenance

Fertilizing with a starter fertilizer (such as an 18-24-12) in the spring and fall will help provide plants with essential nutrients without pushing a lot of top growth. Mowing of some mixes may be required to help keep plants young and tender. Annual food plot mixes will need to be replanted each year.