Finding the right food plot for those shady spots in your woods can be a real game-changer for attracting deer and other wildlife. Sunlight is key for most food plots, but some blends are specifically designed to thrive in low-light conditions. It’s all about choosing the right mix of seeds that can tolerate shade and still provide a nutritious food source for your local critters. I’ve tried a few different options over the years, and it definitely makes a difference when you pick something made for the shade.
Here’s a quick look at some top contenders:
- Whitetail Institute Secret Spot: Great for small, hard-to-reach shady areas.
- Evolved Harvest Throw & Grow: An easy, no-till option that works surprisingly well in shaded areas.
- Biologic Maximum: A blend designed for maximum attraction and growth, even with limited sunlight.
- Tecomate Monster Mix: A versatile mix that includes shade-tolerant clovers and brassicas.
- Frigid Forage Wild Clover: A reliable clover blend known for its persistence and shade tolerance.
Top 5 Best Food Plot For Shaded Woods
1. Whitetail Institute Secret Spot
Whitetail Institute Secret Spot is designed for those small, secluded, and often shady areas that are hard to reach with equipment. It’s a blend of various clovers and brassicas that are known for their ability to thrive in low-light conditions. This makes it perfect for creating small feeding areas in heavily wooded locations.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for small, remote plots.
- ✅ Shade-tolerant blend.
- ✅ Attracts deer with a variety of forage.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires careful weed control.
- ❌ May need reseeding after heavy browsing.
- ❌ Smaller bag size might not cover larger areas.
Verdict: Ideal for hunters looking to create small, hidden food plots in shady areas. It’s a great option for supplementing existing food sources and attracting deer to specific locations.
2. Evolved Harvest Throw & Grow
Evolved Harvest Throw & Grow is a no-till blend that’s super easy to use. You literally just throw it down, and it starts growing. What’s surprising is how well it works in shaded areas, thanks to the inclusion of shade-tolerant grasses and clovers. It’s a convenient option for those who don’t want to deal with tilling or heavy equipment.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to plant (no tilling required).
- ✅ Shade-tolerant varieties included.
- ✅ Quick germination.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires good seed-to-soil contact for best results.
- ❌ Can be outcompeted by weeds if not managed.
- ❌ Might not be as productive as blends requiring tilling.
Verdict: A great choice for beginners or those looking for a quick and easy way to establish a food plot in a shady spot. Just clear the area, throw down the seed, and let nature do its thing.
3. Biologic Maximum
Biologic Maximum is a premium food plot blend designed for maximum attraction and growth, even in less-than-ideal conditions. It includes a mix of brassicas, clovers, and other forages that are known for their palatability and nutritional value. While it performs best in full sun, it’s formulated to tolerate some shade, making it a decent option for partially shaded woods.
Pros:
- ✅ High-quality seed blend.
- ✅ Designed for maximum attraction.
- ✅ Tolerates some shade.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Requires proper soil preparation for best results.
- ❌ May not perform as well in deep shade.
Verdict: If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a high-quality blend that can handle some shade, Biologic Maximum is worth considering. It’s a favorite among serious deer managers for a reason.
4. Tecomate Monster Mix
Tecomate Monster Mix is a versatile food plot mix that includes a variety of plants, including clovers, brassicas, and chicory. This mix is designed to provide a year-round food source for deer and other wildlife. The clovers in the mix are particularly shade-tolerant, making it a good choice for partially shaded areas.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile mix for year-round forage.
- ✅ Includes shade-tolerant clovers.
- ✅ Attracts a variety of wildlife.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires some soil preparation.
- ❌ May need mowing to prevent certain plants from dominating.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for deep shade.
Verdict: A solid choice for those looking for a versatile food plot mix that can provide a consistent food source in areas with partial shade. It’s a good all-around option for attracting and holding deer on your property.
5. Frigid Forage Wild Clover
Frigid Forage Wild Clover is a blend of perennial clovers specifically designed for persistence and attraction. Clovers are naturally shade-tolerant, and this blend is formulated to thrive in a variety of soil conditions. It’s a reliable option for creating long-lasting food plots in areas with limited sunlight.
Pros:
- ✅ Shade-tolerant clover blend.
- ✅ Perennial for long-lasting plots.
- ✅ Attracts deer consistently.
Cons:
- ❌ Primarily a clover blend (less variety).
- ❌ Requires good soil drainage.
- ❌ May need occasional mowing.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a reliable, long-lasting food plot option for shady areas, Frigid Forage Wild Clover is an excellent choice. It’s a proven performer that consistently attracts deer and other wildlife.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right food plot for shaded woods involves considering several factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best decision:
- Assess the amount of sunlight: Even “shade-tolerant” plants need some sunlight. Observe the area throughout the day to determine how much direct and indirect sunlight it receives.
- Consider the soil type: Conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as needed to create the optimal growing conditions for your chosen seed blend.
- Choose the right seed blend: Look for blends that specifically mention shade tolerance. Clover and brassicas are generally good choices for shaded areas.
- Prepare the soil: Even with no-till blends, it’s important to clear the area of debris and create good seed-to-soil contact.
- Control weeds: Weeds can quickly outcompete your food plot, especially in shady areas. Use herbicides or hand-pull weeds as needed.
- Consider browse pressure: If you have a high deer population, choose a blend that can withstand heavy browsing or consider using fencing to protect your food plot.
FAQs
Q: What are the best plants for shaded food plots?
A: Clovers, brassicas (like turnips and kale), and certain grasses are generally the best options for shaded food plots. Look for specific varieties that are known for their shade tolerance.
Q: How much sunlight is needed for a shade-tolerant food plot?
A: While shade-tolerant plants can survive with less sunlight, they still need some light to thrive. Aim for at least 2-4 hours of direct sunlight per day, or consistent indirect sunlight throughout the day.
Q: Do I need to till the soil for a shaded food plot?
A: Not necessarily. No-till blends can work well in shaded areas, especially if you clear the area thoroughly and ensure good seed-to-soil contact. However, tilling can improve soil conditions and promote better growth.
Q: How do I prevent weeds from taking over my shaded food plot?
A: Weed control is crucial. Use herbicides specifically designed for food plots, or hand-pull weeds regularly. Planting a dense, fast-growing food plot can also help to suppress weed growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize my shaded food plot?
A: Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient levels and fertilize accordingly. Generally, you’ll want to fertilize at planting and then again as needed throughout the growing season.
Conclusion
Planting a food plot in a shaded area can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely doable with the right approach. Choosing a shade-tolerant seed blend, preparing the soil properly, and managing weeds are all key to success. Hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point for creating a productive food plot in those shady spots on your property. Experiment, see what works best in your area, and get ready to attract some wildlife!
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