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August 19, 2025
Gerald Almy: Best plantings for fall food plots
Planting fall food plots doesn’t just entice bucks by offering them succulent forage to consume. It also draws in does, offering the double attraction of food and females. But what plants will offer the most appeal to whitetails from October...
**Gerald Almy: Best plantings for fall food plots**
For hunters looking to maximize their chances of success this fall, veteran outdoorsman Gerald Almy emphasizes the importance of strategic fall food plots. More than just a way to lure in trophy bucks, these carefully planned plantings serve as a powerful magnet for whitetail deer of all kinds, offering a double advantage of both nutritious food and the allure of attracting does. But with a plethora of options available, choosing the right plants for your food plot can make all the difference.
Almy stresses that the key to a successful fall food plot lies in understanding the deer's needs during this crucial time of year. As the weather cools and natural forage begins to dwindle, deer are actively seeking out high-energy food sources to build up fat reserves for the winter and the upcoming rut. Therefore, selecting plants that provide palatable and nutritious forage from October onwards is paramount.
While the specific recommendations may vary based on regional climate and soil conditions, Almy generally advocates for a mix of plants that offer both immediate attraction and long-term sustainability. Fast-growing options like brassicas, including turnips, radishes, and kale, are often a good choice. These plants not only provide a quick burst of green forage that deer readily consume, but also offer cold-hardy bulbs and tubers that remain available even after the first frosts.
Another popular choice for fall food plots is cereal grains like wheat, rye, and oats. These grains are highly palatable to deer and provide a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. They also tend to be relatively easy to establish and maintain, making them a practical option for many hunters.
Beyond the specific plant choices, Almy highlights the importance of proper soil preparation and fertilization. Conducting a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies is crucial for ensuring that the chosen plants thrive. Amending the soil with lime and fertilizer as needed will maximize the growth and nutritional value of the forage, ultimately making your food plot more attractive to deer.
By carefully selecting the right plants and implementing sound management practices, hunters can create fall food plots that not only attract deer but also contribute to their overall health and well-being. This translates to a more rewarding hunting experience and a healthier deer population in the long run.
For hunters looking to maximize their chances of success this fall, veteran outdoorsman Gerald Almy emphasizes the importance of strategic fall food plots. More than just a way to lure in trophy bucks, these carefully planned plantings serve as a powerful magnet for whitetail deer of all kinds, offering a double advantage of both nutritious food and the allure of attracting does. But with a plethora of options available, choosing the right plants for your food plot can make all the difference.
Almy stresses that the key to a successful fall food plot lies in understanding the deer's needs during this crucial time of year. As the weather cools and natural forage begins to dwindle, deer are actively seeking out high-energy food sources to build up fat reserves for the winter and the upcoming rut. Therefore, selecting plants that provide palatable and nutritious forage from October onwards is paramount.
While the specific recommendations may vary based on regional climate and soil conditions, Almy generally advocates for a mix of plants that offer both immediate attraction and long-term sustainability. Fast-growing options like brassicas, including turnips, radishes, and kale, are often a good choice. These plants not only provide a quick burst of green forage that deer readily consume, but also offer cold-hardy bulbs and tubers that remain available even after the first frosts.
Another popular choice for fall food plots is cereal grains like wheat, rye, and oats. These grains are highly palatable to deer and provide a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. They also tend to be relatively easy to establish and maintain, making them a practical option for many hunters.
Beyond the specific plant choices, Almy highlights the importance of proper soil preparation and fertilization. Conducting a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies is crucial for ensuring that the chosen plants thrive. Amending the soil with lime and fertilizer as needed will maximize the growth and nutritional value of the forage, ultimately making your food plot more attractive to deer.
By carefully selecting the right plants and implementing sound management practices, hunters can create fall food plots that not only attract deer but also contribute to their overall health and well-being. This translates to a more rewarding hunting experience and a healthier deer population in the long run.
Category:
Sports