Ask The Biologist

Picky Deer?

Picky Deer?

By Bob Humphrey

If you’re planting food plots and the deer aren’t using them, try to be different.

QUESTION: I own some marsh land in lower Wisconsin. In the spring, there is standing water but it dissipates as time goes by to being moist. What crops would do best in this marshy soil? I've planted turnips two years in a row but have seen no deer eating out in the plot. I've planted clover and some rye in another area that has had some deer feed in it. I thought about trying some corn to see what that does. Do you think the low activity is due to nearby lands that are farm crops and that there is just too much of a choice for them? — Pete P.

ANSWER: If your plots are growing, I’d say your biggest problem is likely the nearby crops. You can’t compete with crops by planting crops, so shy away from corn or anything that’s already being grown nearby. Clover, rye and turnips sound like a better option since they deer something different. They like variety.

Depending on the layout of your property, you might also try building smaller plots between bedding areas and nearby crop fields. Deer might be more inclined to stage and feed there before venturing into the larger crop fields after dark.

If you don’t already have some, you might also consider adding some mast to your property with oaks, chestnuts, apples or persimmons. Again, mix it up to add some variety in what’s available and when it’s available.

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Copyright 2020 by Buckmasters, Ltd