Why Fall Food Plots Matter More Than Ever
As the temperatures drop and natural forage begins to dwindle, deer face a critical nutritional gap. For hunters and land managers alike, selecting the right fall food plot mix is crucial, as fall food plots are not just a tool for attraction—they are a cornerstone for herd health, antler development, and consistent deer movement. Whether you’re a seasoned whitetail hunter or managing a wildlife sanctuary, understanding and implementing a well-structured fall food plot can dramatically improve your results.
Understanding Deer Nutritional Needs in Autumn
During the fall, whitetail deer prioritize energy storage in preparation for winter. Bucks are recovering from the antler-growing season and entering the rut, which demands high calories and protein. Does, meanwhile, prepare for winter gestation. Here’s what deer need most in autumn:
- High-energy carbohydrates (found in brassicas and grains)
- Crude protein (~16% optimal) for muscle and antler regeneration
- Digestible fiber for sustained feeding
- Essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus for post-rut recovery
Fall food plots that deliver these nutrients become magnets for both bucks and does—and set the stage for future herd health.
What’s Inside a Premium Fall Food Plot Mix?
High-performance food plot blends like the Premium Mix d’Automne stand out because of their strategic composition. Let’s break down the key components:
1. Grasses (e.g., Triticale, Wheat, Rye)
- Offer digestible fiber and volume
- Fast-growing and early-producing
- Thrive in a wide range of soil types
2. Legumes (e.g., Clover, Austrian Winter Pea)
- High in protein (~20-30%)
- Fix nitrogen naturally into the soil
- Preferred by deer during early fall and pre-rut
3. Brassicas (e.g., Turnips, Radishes, Rape)
- Develop sugary leaves after frost (increased palatability)
- Provide energy-dense bulbs in late season
- Cold-tolerant, lasting well into winter
4. Daikon Radish
- Deep taproots break up compacted soil
- Improve water infiltration and soil health
- Highly attractive during cold snaps
Together, these components deliver a continuous food source from September through the first hard frosts, satisfying both early- and late-season nutritional needs.
How to Plant Your Fall Food Plot: A Step-by-Step Guide
A fall food plot is only as good as the preparation behind it. Follow these steps to maximize germination, growth, and deer utilization:
1. Site Selection
- Choose open areas with 6+ hours of direct sunlight
- Avoid low-lying, flood-prone ground
2. Soil Testing & pH Adjustment
- Test soil for pH (target 6.0–7.0) and nutrient levels
- Apply lime or fertilizer based on test results
3. Ground Preparation
- Mow existing vegetation, spray with glyphosate if needed
- Till or disk soil to create a smooth, firm seedbed
4. Seeding Rates & Methods
- Use 45–50 lbs/acre for mixed seed blends
- Spread with ATV/tractor or broadcast by hand
- Roll or drag to ensure seed-to-soil contact
5. Watering & Germination
- Natural rainfall is often sufficient
- Optional: irrigate during drought conditions
6. Maintenance
- Avoid early overbrowsing with fencing or deterrents
- Top-dress with nitrogen 30 days post-planting for boost
Real-World Results: What to Expect from a Premium Mix
Hunters across North America report the following improvements when using a well-managed fall mix:
- Increased deer sightings during all phases of the season
- Faster antler recovery and body weight gain post-rut
- Higher fawn survival due to better maternal nutrition
- Longer plot longevity, feeding deer into late December (depending on region)
Fall Food Plot vs. Other Mixes: Comparative Advantage
| Feature | Premium Mix d’Automne | Brassica-Only | Clover-Only | Corn/Soy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Attraction | ✓✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ |
| Cold Tolerance | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Protein Content | ✓✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ |
| Soil Improvement | ✓✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Multi-Species Value | ✓✓✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Regional Planting Tips: Adjusting for Your Climate
- Northern Zones (Canada, Upper Midwest):
- Plant no later than late August
- Focus on fast-germinating brassicas and cold-hardy grasses
- Southern Zones (Mid-South, Southeast):
- Plant from mid-September to early October
- Mix in more peas and clovers to extend feeding window
- Drought-Prone Areas:
- Consider radish-heavy blends for deep rooting
- Increase organic matter to retain moisture