Among the many options available, forage peas for deer and beans rank at the top. These legumes provide rich protein, highly digestible forage, and even late-season pod energy if managed correctly.
If you’re a serious hunter or land manager, you already know that high-quality food plots can make the difference between a property that attracts deer consistently and one that doesn’t.
When considering forage peas for deer, timing is key. But when should you plant them, what varieties should you choose, and how do you maximize both nutrition and attraction for whitetail deer? This long-form guide dives deep into everything you need to know.
Why Choose Forage Peas for Deer?
Nutritional Benefits of Forage Peas for Deer
Forage peas are exceptionally high in protein—often exceeding 25–30% crude protein in the vegetative stage. This makes them ideal for supporting antler development, lactation in does, and overall herd health. In addition, forage peas for deer are highly digestible, ensuring deer get the maximum nutritional value from every bite.
Behavioral Attraction
Whitetails are drawn to peas and beans from the moment they sprout. Deer hammer the tender vines and leaves, especially in spring and summer. Later in the season, pod-bearing peas (and beans) add carbohydrate and energy, helping deer pack on fat reserves before winter.
Key Factors That Affect Planting Success
Soil Temperature and Moisture
- Forage peas for deer: Germinate well in cooler soils (45–50°F), making them one of the first legumes you can plant in spring.
- Beans: Require warmer soils (60–65°F minimum).
Both need consistent topsoil moisture for germination. Planting just before a rainfall event can improve results.
Frost Dates and Growing Season
- Peas tolerate light frosts, giving them flexibility in spring and fall.
- Beans are frost-sensitive and must be planted after the last frost.
Always check your USDA hardiness zone and local frost dates before seeding.
Regional Planting Timelines
Northern States and Upper Midwest
- Forage peas for deer: Plant as early as mid-April through May. Fall plantings of Austrian winter peas can extend forage into late season.
- Beans: Late May to mid-June planting is ideal to avoid frost and still allow pod maturity.
Midwest and Central States
- Forage peas for deer: Plant April–May for spring forage; August for fall food plots.
- Beans: May–June is prime, though multiple plantings are possible depending on rainfall.
Southeast and South Texas
- Forage peas for deer: Early spring and late summer plantings are both productive.
- Beans: April–May, with a second planting possible in July or August for fall deer attraction.
Best Varieties of Forage Peas for Deer
Austrian Winter Peas
- Cold-tolerant and great for fall/winter food plots.
- Provide green forage well into late season.
Spring Field Peas
- Quick to germinate, excellent in cool spring soils.
- Deer flock to the tender shoots.
Cowpeas (Technically a Bean/Pea Hybrid)
- Outstanding in the South where summers are hot.
- More heat-tolerant than many other pea varieties.
Soil Preparation for Beans and Forage Peas for Deer
Conduct a Soil Test
- Aim for pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
- Apply lime if soils are acidic.
Fertility
- Peas and beans fix nitrogen but require phosphorus and potassium.
- Use an inoculant designed for peas/beans to improve nodulation and nutrient fixation.
Seedbed Prep
- A firm but fine seedbed ensures proper seed-to-soil contact.
- Control weeds before planting to reduce competition.
Planting Methods
Depth and Seeding Rate
- Forage peas for deer: ½–1 inch deep; 30–50 lbs/acre if drilled, 60–80 lbs/acre if broadcast.
- Beans: 1–1.5 inches deep; 40–60 lbs/acre drilled, higher if broadcasting.
Drilling vs Broadcasting
- Drilling provides the best germination.
- Broadcasting followed by cultipacking works well if equipment is limited.
Managing Deer Pressure
Deer love forage peas for deer so much that overgrazing can be an issue. Consider:
- Planting larger food plots (>1 acre) to spread browsing pressure.
- Using temporary electric fencing to let plants establish.
- Staggering plantings to ensure fresh growth throughout the season.
Leaf Forage vs Pod Production
Leaf Forage Focus
- Plant later into summer if your goal is maximum green forage.
- Increase seeding rates for thicker stands.
Pod Production Focus
- Plant earlier to allow full pod maturity before frost.
- Use wider spacing to encourage flowering and pod set.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring
- Plant peas early as soils warm above 45°F.
- Beans should wait until late spring when frost danger passes.
Summer
- Cowpeas and soybeans thrive in heat if moisture is available.
- Forage peas for deer may suffer in extreme heat unless irrigated.
Fall
- Austrian winter peas are ideal for late plantings, providing forage into winter.
- Mix with cereal grains for diversity and extended attraction.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor germination | Cold soil, dry topsoil, or planting too deep | Wait for correct soil temps, plant shallower, time before rain |
| Overgrazing | High deer density | Use fencing, larger plots, or plant extra acres |
| Weed competition | Inadequate prep | Spray or till before planting, consider cover crop mixes |
| Disease/pests | Wet soils, high humidity | Ensure drainage, rotate crops, choose resistant varieties |
Forage peas for deer and beans are powerhouse food plot crops. By understanding soil temperatures, frost dates, and regional planting windows, you can maximize both green forage and late-season pods. Whether your goal is protein-rich spring growth, summer browse, or fall/winter attraction, the right planning ensures your plots stay productive and keep whitetails returning year after year.