Quick Answer
To attract deer to your hunting area in Michigan, plant a mix of food plots that include clover, alfalfa, and corn, and consider installing a mineral feeder with a high-phosphorus mineral supplement. Create a food source that's available from spring to fall by rotating crops and using a combination of annuals and perennials. Consider creating a water source and maintaining a cover crop to provide shelter and protection.
Food Plot Selection
When selecting food plots for your Michigan deer hunting area, focus on plants that are high in protein and calcium. Consider planting a mix of white clover, alfalfa, and corn, which can be grown in a variety of soil types. Aim for a minimum of 1-2 acres of food plots per 50-100 acres of woodland, and consider creating a series of smaller plots to encourage deer movement. Rotate your crops annually to maintain a diverse and healthy food source.
Mineral Feeding and Water Sources
Deer require a diet rich in minerals, particularly phosphorus, to support antler growth and overall health. Consider installing a mineral feeder with a high-phosphorus mineral supplement, such as a 10-20-10 N-P-K formula. Aim for a feeder that can dispense 1-2 pounds of minerals per day, and place it in an area that receives moderate to high deer traffic. Creating a water source, such as a pond or spring, can also attract deer to your hunting area and provide them with a critical resource.
Habitat Enhancement
To create a more attractive hunting area, consider enhancing your habitat by planting a cover crop, such as winter rye or oats, and maintaining a mix of tree species that provide food and shelter for deer. Aim to create a cover crop that’s at least 3-4 feet tall to provide protection from the elements and predators. Consider creating a series of small clearings or “deer lanes” to encourage deer movement and provide access to your food plots and mineral feeder.
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