Quick Answer
Deer tend to prefer clover over brassicas during the early season, particularly when clover is in its lush growth stage, which usually occurs in late spring or early summer, around June 15th to July 15th.
Early Season Deer Preferences
Deer have a strong affinity for clover, especially when it’s in its early stages of growth. This is due to the high protein content and the ease with which deer can digest it. When clover is in its lush growth stage, it can provide up to 25% crude protein, making it an attractive food source for deer.
Brassicas: A Secondary Option
While brassicas can be an effective food source for deer, they tend to be less preferred during the early season. This is because brassicas have a lower protein content compared to clover, typically ranging from 15% to 20% crude protein. However, brassicas do have the advantage of being more cold-tolerant and can be planted earlier in the season, often around March or April, to provide a food source during the late winter or early spring.
Implementing a Diverse Food Plot Strategy
To create an effective food plot strategy, it’s essential to incorporate a mix of clover and brassicas. Planting a clover-based plot in early summer and a brassica-based plot in late winter or early spring can provide a diverse food source for deer throughout the year. Aim to include a minimum of 20% clover in your overall food plot mix to take advantage of its high nutritional value during the early season.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.