Forage soybean food plots have become a cornerstone for livestock producers, deer managers, and landowners seeking high-protein, digestible forage. Among the top providers, Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans stand out for their reputation, non-GMO options, and proven performance across diverse regions.
This article dives into everything you need to know about eagle seeds forage soybeans — from variety selection and nutritional benefits to soil preparation, planting, and harvest strategies — so you can make the most of your forage soybean food plot.
Why Choose Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans?
Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans are bred specifically for forage quality rather than grain yield. Unlike traditional grain soybeans, these varieties focus on lush foliage, extended growing season, and high palatability for livestock and wildlife alike.
Key Benefits of Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans
- High Protein Content: Often ranging from 20–25% crude protein, critical for livestock and deer nutrition.
- Non-GMO Options: Meeting wildlife plot and natural farming preferences.
- Extended Growing Season: Many varieties are bred for late maturity, ensuring green forage through summer into fall.
- Wildlife Attraction: Dense, leafy growth that deer and other game species heavily browse.
- Soil Health: As legumes, they fix nitrogen, improving soil fertility for subsequent crops.
Agronomic Traits That Make Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans Stand Out
| Trait | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Leaf-to-stem ratio | Maximizes digestibility and protein intake |
| Drought tolerance | Resilient growth even under moisture stress |
| Disease resistance | Helps reduce yield losses from foliar and root diseases |
| Biomass production | Produces heavy tonnage of forage per acre |
| Adaptability | Performs well in varied soil types and climates |
Planting Guide
Soil Preparation and Fertility
For best results, Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans should be planted in fertile, well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Soil testing is strongly recommended to balance phosphorus and potassium levels. Where soybeans haven’t been planted recently, rhizobia inoculants are critical for optimal nitrogen fixation.
Seeding Rates and Depth
- Recommended seeding rate: 60–120 lbs/acre depending on desired density and grazing pressure.
- Row spacing: Narrow rows (7–15 inches) promote faster canopy closure, suppress weeds, and maximize biomass.
- Seeding depth: 1 to 1.5 inches, adjusted for soil moisture conditions.
Best Practices for Managing
Weed and Pest Control
Non-GMO forage soybeans may limit herbicide options, so pre-emergent weed control is essential. Early canopy closure helps suppress weeds naturally. Regular scouting for pests such as soybean aphids and defoliating insects ensures timely interventions.
Disease Resistance and Crop Rotation
Rotating with non-legume crops reduces disease pressure. Choosing disease-resistant varieties further minimizes risks from common pathogens like Phytophthora root rot or soybean cyst nematode.
Harvest and Utilization
Optimal Harvest Timing
- Silage: Harvest at R3–R4 growth stage for peak protein and digestibility.
- Grazing: Introduce livestock when plants are 18–24 inches tall; rotate pastures to allow regrowth.
- Wildlife food plots: Allow plants to mature longer for pod production, extending food availability into late season.
Feeding Value
Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans deliver crude protein levels that rival alfalfa, with excellent fiber digestibility. Proper harvest and storage techniques preserve leaves — the highest-protein component — ensuring maximum feed value.
Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans for Deer Food Plots
Why Deer Prefer Eagle Seeds Forage Soybeans
Deer are drawn to soybeans for their high protein and palatability. Unlike grain soybeans that mature quickly, this blend stays green longer, providing forage throughout the critical summer antler-growing period and into hunting season.
Tips for Successful Food Plots
- Plant in well-drained, fertile soils.
- Protect early growth with temporary fencing if browsing pressure is high.
- Mix with other annuals or perennials for season-long food sources.
Comparing ESF Soybeans with Grain Soybeans
| Feature | Forage Soybeans | Grain Soybeans |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Forage, grazing, silage, wildlife plots | Seed harvest |
| Protein Level | Higher (18–25%) | Moderate (12–16%) |
| Growing Season | Extended leafiness, later maturity | Shorter maturity for grain production |
| Wildlife Attraction | High | Moderate, mostly during pod stage |
| Biomass Yield | High tonnage per acre | Lower foliage yield |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting
- Planting too late → reduces biomass and forage availability before frost.
- Ignoring inoculation → limits nitrogen fixation, reduces growth.
- Poor weed control → competition reduces yield.
- Overgrazing → damages regrowth potential and stand longevity.