Winter can be a tough time for deer. Natural food sources become scarce, and they need to conserve energy to survive the cold. That’s where a well-planned food plot comes in handy, providing a reliable and nutritious food source to help them through the lean months. Choosing the right seed mix can make all the difference, attracting deer and keeping them healthy when they need it most. I’ve tested a bunch of different blends over the years on my property, and I’m sharing my top picks to help you create a successful winter food plot.
Here’s a quick rundown of my top recommendations:
- Whitetail Institute Winter Greens: Best overall for attracting deer and providing essential nutrients.
- Evolved Harvest Winter Seed Blend: Great for beginners, easy to establish and maintain.
- Barenbrug Polar Forage Winter Survival Blend: Excellent cold tolerance, ideal for harsh winter climates.
- Real World Wildlife Products Deadly Dozen: Diverse blend offering a variety of food sources for picky eaters.
- Tecomate Max Attraction: A premium blend designed for maximum attraction and antler growth support.
Top 5 Best Deer Food Plot For Winter Reviews
Whitetail Institute Winter Greens
Whitetail Institute Winter Greens is a popular choice for a reason. This blend is specifically designed to provide a highly attractive and nutritious food source for deer during the winter months. It’s formulated to withstand cold temperatures and provide consistent forage, even when other food sources are scarce.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly attractive to deer.
- ✅ Provides essential vitamins and minerals.
- ✅ Cold-tolerant and persistent.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options.
- ❌ Requires proper soil preparation for best results.
- ❌ May need reseeding in some areas after heavy grazing.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a reliable and proven winter food plot that deer will love, Whitetail Institute Winter Greens is an excellent choice, despite the slightly higher price tag.
Evolved Harvest Winter Seed Blend
Evolved Harvest Winter Seed Blend is a great option if you’re new to food plots. It’s designed to be easy to establish and maintain, making it perfect for beginners. The blend includes a variety of seeds that provide a balanced diet for deer throughout the winter.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to establish and maintain.
- ✅ Affordable option for beginners.
- ✅ Provides a balanced diet for deer.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as attractive as some premium blends.
- ❌ Can be less cold-tolerant in extremely harsh climates.
- ❌ Might require more frequent fertilization.
Verdict: Evolved Harvest Winter Seed Blend is a solid choice for those who are just starting out with food plots or are looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers results.
Barenbrug Polar Forage Winter Survival Blend
Barenbrug Polar Forage Winter Survival Blend is specifically formulated for areas with harsh winter climates. This blend features exceptional cold tolerance, ensuring that it can withstand freezing temperatures and still provide a valuable food source for deer. If you live in a region with long, cold winters, this is a great option.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent cold tolerance.
- ✅ Provides a consistent food source in harsh winters.
- ✅ Can survive in challenging soil conditions.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as widely available as other brands.
- ❌ Can be slower to establish compared to some blends.
- ❌ Might not be as attractive to deer in areas with mild winters.
Verdict: If you need a food plot that can handle extreme cold, Barenbrug Polar Forage Winter Survival Blend is the way to go. Its superior cold tolerance makes it a reliable choice in the toughest winter conditions.
Real World Wildlife Products Deadly Dozen
Real World Wildlife Products Deadly Dozen is a diverse blend that offers a variety of food sources for deer. This variety can be especially helpful if you have picky eaters in your area or if you want to ensure that deer have access to a wide range of nutrients. I’ve found it really helps hold deer on my property even when other plots aren’t performing as well.
Pros:
- ✅ Diverse blend with a variety of food sources.
- ✅ Attracts deer with different preferences.
- ✅ Provides a wide range of nutrients.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some simpler blends.
- ❌ Requires careful planting to ensure proper seed distribution.
- ❌ Some of the plants may not be as cold-tolerant as others.
Verdict: If you want to offer deer a diverse and nutritious food source, Real World Wildlife Products Deadly Dozen is a great option. The variety of plants will keep them coming back for more.
Tecomate Max Attraction
Tecomate Max Attraction is a premium blend designed to maximize attraction and support antler growth. It’s formulated with high-quality ingredients that are specifically chosen to entice deer and provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive. It’s a bit of an investment, but can really pay off.
Pros:
- ✅ Designed for maximum attraction.
- ✅ Supports antler growth.
- ✅ High-quality ingredients.
Cons:
- ❌ Most expensive option on the list.
- ❌ Requires careful soil preparation and management.
- ❌ May not be necessary for all situations.
Verdict: If you’re willing to invest in a premium food plot that’s designed to attract deer and support antler growth, Tecomate Max Attraction is a great choice. It’s a top-of-the-line option for serious deer managers.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right deer food plot for winter involves considering several factors. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Climate: Select a blend that is suitable for your local climate. Some blends are more cold-tolerant than others, so choose one that can withstand the winter temperatures in your area.
- Soil Type: Consider your soil type when choosing a seed mix. Some plants thrive in certain soil conditions better than others. Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s pH and nutrient levels.
- Deer Population: The size of your local deer population will influence the size and type of food plot you need. If you have a large deer population, you’ll need a larger food plot and a blend that can withstand heavy grazing.
- Budget: Food plot blends can range in price, so consider your budget when making your selection. While premium blends may offer better results, there are also affordable options that can still provide a valuable food source for deer.
- Maintenance: Think about the amount of time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your food plot. Some blends require more maintenance than others, so choose one that fits your lifestyle and capabilities.
- Planting Time: Most winter food plots should be planted in late summer or early fall to allow the plants to establish themselves before winter arrives. Check the specific planting instructions for your chosen blend.
- Sunlight: Most food plot mixes need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Choose a location that receives adequate sunlight.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to plant a winter food plot?
A: Late summer or early fall is generally the best time to plant a winter food plot. This allows the plants to establish themselves before the first frost.
Q: How do I prepare the soil for a food plot?
A: Start by clearing the area of weeds and debris. Then, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as needed with lime or fertilizer to create optimal growing conditions.
Q: How much fertilizer do I need for my food plot?
A: The amount of fertilizer you need will depend on your soil test results. Follow the recommendations on the fertilizer bag or consult with a local agricultural expert.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when planting a food plot?
A: Common mistakes include planting at the wrong time of year, not preparing the soil properly, and not providing adequate weed control.
Q: How do I keep deer from overgrazing my food plot?
A: Planting a larger food plot can help reduce overgrazing. You can also use fencing or deer repellents to protect your plants.
Conclusion
A well-planned winter food plot can be a game-changer for deer management. By choosing the right seed mix and following proper planting and maintenance practices, you can provide a valuable food source that helps deer survive and thrive during the harsh winter months. Consider your local climate, soil type, deer population, and budget when making your selection, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful winter food plot. Good luck, and happy planting!
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