Why Choose Frigid Forage Big and Beasty for Deer Plots?
Frigid Forage Big and Beasty has become one of the most recognized brassica blends for late-season food plots. Designed specifically for whitetail deer, this mix combines forage rapes, radishes, turnips, and kale to provide both nutrient-rich leafy greens and energy-packed bulbs.
- High attraction: Deer are naturally drawn to the sweetened leaves after frost.
- Winter resilience: Bulbs remain accessible under snow and frozen soil.
- Soil improvement: Radishes help break up compaction and recycle nutrients.
Compared to single-species food plots, this blend delivers a longer window of forage availability — from early fall through the harshest winter months.
What’s Inside the Frigid Forage Big and Beasty Blend?
| Component | Function | Benefit to Deer |
|---|---|---|
| Forage Rape | Fast leafy growth | Early attraction and protein-rich greens |
| Forage Radish | Deep roots | Soil tillage, late-season root forage |
| Purple Top & Golden Ball Turnips | Bulbs + leaves | Energy reserves under frozen ground |
| Sub-Zero Kale | Cold-hardy leaves | Green forage deep into winter |
The diverse deer food plot mix ensures that deer have access to multiple types of forage even as weather conditions change.
How to Plant Frigid Forage Big and Beasty Successfully
Soil Preparation for Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
- Test pH (ideal range: 6.0–6.8).
- Apply lime if necessary.
- Incorporate phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur to boost growth.
- Create a firm seedbed for proper seed-to-soil contact.
Best Planting Time for Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
- Northern climates: late July to early August.
- Midwestern/temperate zones: early to mid-August.
- Southern states: late August to September.
- Avoid planting too early (heat stress) or too late (insufficient growth before frost).
Seeding Rates and Depth
- Rate: ~4 lbs per acre.
- Depth: ¼ to ½ inch.
- Broadcast or drill evenly for best stand density.
Seasonal Management of Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
- Fertilization: Apply nitrogen mid-season for lush leafy growth.
- Weed control: Suppress competition before planting; brassicas don’t compete well with grasses or broadleaf weeds.
- Pest monitoring: Watch for flea beetles, aphids, and fungal issues.
- Frost response: Expect leaves to sweeten after frost, increasing deer attraction.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
Advantages
- Exceptional late-season deer attraction.
- High protein (18–25%) and digestible energy.
- Long availability window (fall through deep winter).
- Improves soil tilth with radishes.
Drawbacks
- Requires proper soil fertility for maximum yield.
- Annual planting necessary — does not regenerate like clover.
- Over-browsing can reduce regrowth.
- Some brassicas may be less palatable in warm climates until frost.
How Deer Respond to Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
Whitetail deer typically ignore brassicas early in the season when natural forages are abundant. After the first hard frost, starches convert to sugars, making the plot irresistibly sweet.
- Deer target the leaves in October/November.
- Once leaves are consumed, they dig up bulbs and radish roots well into January and February.
- Trail camera studies show consistent usage across age classes and both sexes.
Regional Tips for Planting Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
Northern Climates
- Focus on early planting for full maturity before frost.
- Rely on kale and turnips for late-winter forage.
Midwestern Zones
- Plant mid-August for balanced leaf and root production.
- Mix with cereal grains for variety if deer densities are high.
Southern States
- Delay planting until late August/early September to avoid heat stress.
- Consider irrigation or companion crops for drought protection.
Comparing Frigid Forage Big and Beasty with Other Blends
- Versus pure clover: Big and Beasty offers late-season attraction when clover is dormant.
- Versus cereal grains: Brassicas last longer into winter; cereals provide early fall forage.
- Versus other brassica mixes: The inclusion of kale sets Big and Beasty apart, extending feeding windows.
Cost, Yield, and ROI of Frigid Forage Big and Beasty
- Seed cost: Moderate, but cost-effective compared to commercial alternatives.
- Yield: Up to 10–12 tons of forage per acre under optimal management.
- Return: Strong deer herds, higher late-season hunting success, and long-term soil health.