We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance,
functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you
are agreeing to our privacy policy
7 Best Deer Food Plots
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Deer Food Plots
Choosing the right products and seeds for deer food plots can play a big role in successfully attracting deer and supporting your land’s wildlife. The best product depends on your specific goals, soil type, sunlight exposure, and the time of year you plan to plant. It’s important to know which crops thrive in your conditions, and how different mixes can support deer nutrition and plot longevity. Understanding the specifications will help you make choices that lead to a healthy, effective food plot tailored to your land and wildlife needs.Seed Mix TypeSeed mix type refers to the specific blend of plants or crops included in the deer food plot seed package. This is important because different crops serve various functions: some attract deer during fall, while others provide nutrition during spring or summer. Mixes often contain clover, chicory, brassicas, or grains, each appealing to deer at different times or providing different nutrients. Basic mixes with one or two plant types are easy to manage and are good for beginners, while more complex mixes offer greater variety and resilience but may require more knowledge of planting and care. Choose based on your local wildlife preferences, the seasons you want to attract deer, and how involved you want to be in plot management.
Planting SeasonPlanting season indicates the best time of year to sow your deer food plot seeds. This is crucial because planting at the wrong time can lead to poor growth or low attraction for deer. Some seeds are meant for spring planting, providing summer forage, while others do best if planted in late summer or fall to be attractive during hunting season. If you want immediate attraction in the fall, look for plots labeled as ‘fall seeds’. For long-term nutrition that starts with spring growth, select ‘spring seeds’. Your geographic location and local climate will play a role here; always match the planting window to your region and objectives.
Sunlight RequirementsSunlight requirements tell you if a certain seed mix will grow best in full sun, partial shade, or low-light areas. This matters because food plots planted in the wrong light conditions may fail or provide less forage. Full-sun mixes need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, and are best for open fields or clearings. Partial shade mixes can handle some tree cover and work well in forest edges. Evaluate your site: if you plan to plant in a wide, open area, you can pick sun-loving seeds; if your plots are more shaded, select mixes marked for partial sunlight or shade tolerance.
Soil AdaptabilitySoil adaptability indicates how well a particular seed mix can grow in different soil types, like sandy, clay, acidic, or low-fertility soils. This is important because not every seed thrives in poor or challenging conditions. Some varieties, such as clover and chicory, can do well in average soils, while others may need rich, well-drained locations. If your plot is in a spot with uncertain or poor-quality soil, look for mixes labeled as 'low input' or 'soil adaptable'. If you know your soil is fertile and drains well, you have more options. Consider testing your soil, but if that’s not possible, pick versatile mixes that tolerate a range of conditions.
Growth DurationGrowth duration is how long the planted crops will last and keep providing food for deer. Some seeds germinate quickly and provide food for just a few weeks or a season, while perennial mixes can last several years with proper care. Fast-growing annuals are great if you need immediate attraction for a short time—like during hunting season. Perennials require more initial maintenance but feed deer over several years, reducing the need to replant. Choose annuals if you want a quick, easy plot for a single season, and perennials if you want less replanting and longer-term habitat improvement.