Why Plant Turnips for Deer Food Plots?

When it comes to creating a reliable, high-energy food source for deer, few options compete with turnips for deer food plots. These cool-season brassicas provide nutritious leafy forage early in the season, followed by energy-rich roots after frost. Properly managed, they can draw and hold deer throughout fall and winter.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything about turnips for deer food plots — from soil preparation and seeding rates to seasonal management, troubleshooting, and regional timing.

Nutritional Value of Turnips for Deer

  • Leaves: Rich in protein (15–22% crude protein)
  • Roots (bulbs): Energy-dense, especially after frost when sugars increase
  • Digestibility: High, making them highly palatable for whitetails
  • Seasonal benefit: Dual use — foliage in early fall, roots in late season

Deer are often reluctant to eat turnips before frost. Once cold temperatures convert bitter compounds to sugars, usage spikes. This makes turnips a critical late-season draw.

Best Sites for Planting Turnips for Deer Food Plots

  1. Soil Type: Well-drained loam or sandy soils work best. Avoid heavy clays or poorly drained ground.
  2. Sunlight: Choose open areas with at least 6 hours of direct sun.
  3. History: Avoid fields with a history of brassica diseases such as club root.
  4. Soil Test: Always test before planting. Aim for a pH of 6.0–6.8.

Pro Tip: Apply lime months before planting if soil is too acidic. Fertility and pH correction are key for strong root and foliage development.

Soil Preparation for Turnip Plots

  • Till or disk soil to create a smooth, firm seedbed.
  • Incorporate lime and fertilizer according to soil test results.
  • Control weeds before planting with tillage or herbicide.

A well-prepared seedbed ensures better seed-to-soil contact and uniform germination.

How to Plant Turnips for Deer Food Plots

Seeding Methods

  • Broadcast: Scatter seed evenly, then cultipack or roll to press seed into soil.
  • Drill: More precise and efficient, reduces seed waste.

Seeding Rate and Depth

  • Broadcast rate: 10–12 lbs per acre
  • Drill rate: 7–9 lbs per acre
  • Depth: ¼ inch maximum — planting too deep reduces germination

Timing by Region

  • North / Midwest: July–August
  • South: August–September
  • Goal: Plant 60–90 days before first hard frost

Turnip Varieties for Deer Food Plots

  • Purple Top White Globe: A classic, dual-purpose variety
  • Seven Top: Produces more leafy growth than bulbs
  • Tokyo Cross: Known for fast growth and cold tolerance
  • Hybrid Turnips: Improved vigor, disease resistance, and yield

Many land managers blend turnips with radishes, rape, or kale to increase diversity and extend deer attractiveness.

Fertility and Maintenance

Turnips are heavy feeders. Follow these general guidelines (adjust based on soil test):

  • Nitrogen: 50–70 lbs per acre, applied in split doses
  • Phosphorus and Potassium: Apply according to soil test
  • Micronutrients: Boron and sulfur improve root growth and sugar levels

Weed competition is minimal once turnips canopy, but control early weeds at establishment.

Seasonal Growth and Deer Usage

  • Early Season: Limited browsing until frost
  • After Frost: Rapid increase in deer activity due to sugar conversion
  • Winter: Roots remain available under snow, sustaining deer when other food sources vanish

Common Problems with Turnip Food Plots

  • Poor Germination: Usually caused by planting too deep or dry conditions
  • Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves = nitrogen shortage
  • Pests: Flea beetles, cutworms, or cabbageworms may damage seedlings
  • Diseases: Club root and mildew are minimized with crop rotation

Regional Tips for Success

  • Northern States & Canada: Plant earlier (July) to ensure roots form before frost.
  • Midwest: Late July to early September plantings perform best.
  • South: Plant in late August or September; watch out for heat and drought stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will deer eat turnips before frost?
Not usually. Expect light browsing until frost increases sweetness.

How long do turnip food plots last?
They typically last into late winter, depending on deer density and snow depth.

Can I mix turnips with other seeds?
Yes, they pair well with radishes, rape, and clover for a diverse forage base.

Key Takeaways

  • Turnips for deer food plots are one of the most effective late-season attractants.
  • Success requires soil testing, correct seeding depth, and proper timing.
  • Expect light use until frost, followed by heavy late-season browsing.
  • Blending with other forages can extend attraction and reduce browsing pressure.

By following these proven steps, you’ll establish high-quality, productive turnip plots that keep deer on your property throughout deer hunting season and beyond.