Best Cover Crop For Deer (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a way to attract deer to your hunting property, using cover crops might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Cover crops are plants that help improve soil health and provide forage for deer, which can be especially important during the winter months when food is scarce. However, before you jump into planting cover crops, there are a few factors you should consider.
Firstly, you need to think about the location where you’ll be planting the cover crops. Understanding the soil type, the layout of your hunting property, and the local climate will help you pick the best cover crop for your specific needs. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the types of deer that inhabit your hunting property, as different species may be attracted to different types of plant varieties.
Secondly, it’s important to consider how the cover crops will be maintained. Some cover crops require more attention and care than others, so it’s crucial to pick a cover crop that aligns with the amount of effort you’re willing to put in. Moreover, some cover crops can benefit from being rotated with other crops to prevent soil depletion and improve overall productivity.
Are you curious about what the best cover crop options are for attracting deer? What factors should you consider before deciding on a cover crop? How can cover crops benefit your hunting property beyond attracting deer? Keep reading to find out more.
10 Best Cover Crop For Deer
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It is ideal for attracting wildlife and game, as well as serving as a bee pollinator.
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This product is ideal for protecting gardens and flower beds from birds, rabbits, and other pests.
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This product is ideal for growing cover crops and food plots to attract deer and wildlife during the winter season.
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The product is ideal for planting cover crops that are 60% clover, helping to improve soil health and fertility.
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Ideal for creating a lush and nutrient-rich food plot for deer during both spring and fall seasons.
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This product is ideal for creating a food plot to attract deer and other wildlife.
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This product is ideal for erosion control, ground cover, lawn alternative, pasture, forage, and more.
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This product is ideal for use as a cover crop or forage crop to benefit soil health and wildlife.
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Ideal for improving soil health, providing forage for wildlife, and as a cover crop to prevent erosion.
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10
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Improving soil nutrition, reducing soil erosion, attracting deer and other wildlife, and creating a winter cover crop.
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1. Mancan Buckwheat 5 Lb Cover Crop – Wild Life And Game Attactant – Bee Pollinator
This product is an excellent choice for those looking to attract wildlife to their outdoor space. With its ability to serve as a great bee pollinator, it can help promote healthy plant growth and contribute to a thriving ecosystem. Additionally, this product provides good ground coverage, making it an ideal choice for those looking to create a lush and vibrant outdoor environment.
One of the standout features of this product is its adaptability to a variety of soil types. Whether you have sandy or clay soil, this product is well-suited to almost any soil type, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Another benefit of this product is its early maturing qualities. This means that you can expect to see the benefits of this product sooner rather than later, making it a great option for those looking for quick results.
In addition to its ability to attract bees and other pollinators, this product also serves as an excellent cover crop for a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, quail, pheasants, and rabbits. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to create a natural and sustainable environment for wildlife.
2. De-Bird Heavy Duty Garden Netting
Introducing the Extra Strong Bird Net Garden Mesh Netting and Deer Fencing, a must-have for any garden lover who wishes to keep their crops safe from pests and birds. With this product, you can rest assured that your fruit trees, berries, flowers, and vegetables will be protected from harm.
This garden cover mesh boasts a 3/5 inch design that provides maximum protection against any pesky animals that may invade your garden. The mesh is specifically designed to keep birds away, making it the perfect bird-proof garden bed cover.
The product is incredibly easy to use, with garden netting plant cages that keep animals out and netting for plants. You'll love how effortless it is to set up and maintain this fence for garden protection from animals.
Don't let birds, squirrels, or deers ruin your harvest! With this deer netting and fruit tree netting, you can safeguard your garden and enjoy a bountiful harvest. This product is the ultimate solution to keep pests and animals away from your crops, making it a must-have for any gardener.
3. Discount Lawn Care 10lbs Winter Rye Seed Cover Crop,food Plot Deer,wildlife
This cereal rye is a versatile grain that can be used for a variety of purposes, making it a valuable addition to any homesteader's crop rotation. With its cold tolerance and ability to thrive in over-wintering conditions, this rye is a reliable choice for farmers in colder regions.
Not only does it perform well in harsh conditions, but it also has the ability to suppress even the most noxious weeds, making it a great option for those looking to control weed growth in their fields. Additionally, this rye performs well in poor soils, making it an ideal choice for farmers who are working with less fertile land.
One of the unique benefits of this cereal rye is its ability to provide nutrient scavenging and grazing from late fall to early spring. This makes it an excellent choice for farmers looking to maximize their forage production during the cooler months.
In addition to its agricultural benefits, this cereal rye also provides excellent erosion control. Its dense root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it a valuable tool for farmers and land managers working to preserve their soil health.
4. Buildasoil Clover Cover Crop Blend – 12 Seed Mix 60% Clover (50 Lb Bag)
The NO Till Cover Crop Blend is a highly recommended product for farmers and gardeners alike. This blend comprises 12 different species that are carefully chosen to ensure maximum diversity in your soil. With the inclusion of premium clover and no filler, this blend guarantees excellent results for your crops.
The NO Till Cover Crop Blend has been a proven winner since 2013, making it a trusted brand in the agricultural industry. It is part of the BuildASoil Way, a well-known and respected agricultural brand that focuses on sustainable and organic farming practices.
The 12 species included in this blend are carefully selected to provide various benefits to your soil. The blend includes clover, which is known to fix nitrogen, and other species that help with soil structure, water retention, and weed suppression. With these 12 species, you can be sure that your soil will be healthy, fertile, and productive.
The NO Till Cover Crop Blend is easy to use and requires no tilling, making it a perfect solution for those who want to reduce soil erosion and improve soil health. It is also suitable for all types of soil and can be used in any climate.
Investing in the NO Till Cover Crop Blend is a wise decision for anyone who wants to enhance their soil and improve crop yields. With its high-quality ingredients, proven track record, and commitment to sustainability, this blend is a must-have for any serious gardener or farmer.
5. Whitetail Institute Imperial Clover Food Plot Seed (Spring And Fall Planting), 4-Pound (1/2 Acre)
This product is a powerful tool for anyone looking to improve the health and wellbeing of their deer population. It contains a high concentration of protein that is specifically designed to help antlers grow stronger and fuller. Additionally, this protein helps does deliver healthier fawns that are able to thrive in their environment.
One of the key benefits of this product is its extreme tolerance to cold, heat, and drought. This means that no matter what the conditions are like in your area, you can still expect to see great results when using this product.
Another feature of this product is that it is coated with RainBond, a unique substance that enhances seedling survivability. This coating helps to protect the seeds from damage caused by harsh weather conditions, insects, and other environmental factors. As a result, you can enjoy a higher success rate when planting the seeds and expect to see more robust growth in your deer population.
Finally, it is worth noting that this product has a long lifespan, lasting up to 5 years from a single planting. This means that you won't need to continually replant the seeds to see results, saving you time and money in the long run.
6. Outsidepride Clover King Deer & Wildlife Food Plot Seed – 5 Lbs
Clover King is a highly sought-after perennial clover, which is specially designed for deer food plots. This clover and alfalfa mix is a great source of protein, which helps in increasing antler growth. The recommended sowing rate for Clover King is 8-10 lbs per acre, and it's suitable for USDA Zones 3-10.
Broadcasting the seed on the prepared soil and raking it in lightly is the ideal way to plant Clover King. Maintaining the soil's moisture is crucial until the seeds germinate and develop. The Clover King seeds are coated with an inoculant for better establishment, and we use NITRO-COAT rhizobium strains that are specifically chosen for each seed type. Moisture is the key to successful establishment and early seed development.
Clover King is an heirloom forage clover that provides excellent quality and nutrition to deer. It is a long-lasting and reliable source of food, making it an ideal choice for deer food plots. Its protein-rich content helps in promoting antler growth, and it's a must-have for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts.
7. Dutch Clover: Versatile Erosion Control & Ground Cover
White Dutch Clover Seed is a versatile perennial that can be used for many purposes such as erosion control, lawn alternative, food plots, green manure crop, pasture mixtures, ground cover, and more. This perennial seed can be grown across the country for deer food plots, erosion control, pasture mixtures, and cover crops in USDA Zones 3 – 10.
One of the main benefits of White Clover is that it helps boost soil nitrogen levels, taking nitrogen from the air and fixing it in the soil. This makes it an excellent green manure crop and cover crop. Additionally, it can be used as a lawn alternative, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for homeowners.
To plant White Dutch Clover, simply broadcast the seed on the prepared soil and rake it in lightly. Keep the clover seed continually moist until germination occurs, which usually takes about 14 days with temperatures of 65 – 70F. The seeding rate for White Dutch Clover is 1/4 lb – 1/2 lb per 1,000 square feet or 8 to 10 lbs per acre.
8. Cereal Rye Grain Seeds Open Pollinated Cover Crop Forage Deer Plot Food (22 Pounds)
Cereal Rye is an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance grass that is versatile and easy to grow. Whether you are looking to plant it as a cover crop or as a source of forage for livestock and wildlife, Cereal Rye is a great option. It is also a visually appealing addition to any landscape.
This product is 100% natural and has not been genetically modified or hybridized in any way. It is completely open-pollinated and heirloom, ensuring that you are getting a high-quality product that is free from any artificial ingredients or additives.
At CZ Grain, we stand behind our products and are committed to ensuring your success. That is why we offer a guarantee with all of our products. If you have any questions or concerns, our team is here to provide you with a fast and simple solution. Trust in our expertise and experience and choose Cereal Rye for your next planting project.
9. Red Clover Seed: Versatile Legume For Growth
Crimson clover is a versatile and nutrient-rich crop that can benefit both wildlife and livestock. This winter annual offers a high protein supply that supports the growth and development of whitetail deer and other wildlife. Additionally, it can be used in hay production or as a cover crop.
If you're looking to plant crimson clover for livestock, it can be used for forage and hay in pastures. When planted in the fall, it makes for an excellent late winter grazing crop and can be planted with grasses for optimal growth. This crop can also thrive on both sandy and clay type soils, making it a versatile choice for farmers across the United States.
Crimson clover is a winter annual that is grown from bulk clover seeds from the Gulf Coast region to Southern Ohio all the way to the West Coast. It is tolerant of medium soil acidity and is an important winter annual forage in the south. The amount of growth is influenced by temperature, with growth continuing through the winter.
This crop thrives when planted in mixture with grasses, providing excellent winter grazing and making good hay. Harvested for forage in the pre-bloom stage, it is high in nutritive value. The flower heads are long, crimson, and very showy, making it a beautiful addition to any farm.
Crimson clover seeds and annual ryegrass make an excellent cover crop mixture for improving the texture, organic matter, and tilth of soil. These heirloom seeds are non-GMO and open-pollinated, ensuring their quality and purity. The crimson seed is coated and inoculated for optimum germination and growth, providing farmers with peace of mind.
Dixie reseeding crimson clover is a productive, palatable cool season forage for deer. It starts fast, withstands heavy continuous grazing, and produces a consistent, heavy seed crop with good reseeding potential. This crop is an important component of many of Pennington's Rackmaster Wildlife Seed mixtures. To plant crimson clover, sow seeds at 1/2 – 3/4 lb per 1,000 square feet or 20 to 30 lbs per acre.
10. 5lbs Winter Rye Seed Cover Crop,food Plot Deer,wildlife
Introducing a versatile cereal rye that can be used for a variety of purposes. This rye is perfect for making flour, rye bread, rye beer, whisky, vodka, and more, making it an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen.
Not only is this cereal rye versatile in its uses, but it's also cold tolerant and performs exceptionally well in over-wintering conditions. This means you can rely on this rye to thrive even in harsh weather conditions.
One of the unique features of this cereal rye is its ability to suppress even the most noxious of weeds, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a weed-free garden. Additionally, it does well in poor soils, which means you can still enjoy a healthy yield even if your soil quality is not ideal.
This cereal rye also provides late fall to early spring nutrient scavenging and grazing, making it an excellent choice for farmers and ranchers. It can help to improve the quality of your soil and provide much-needed nutrients for your livestock.
Lastly, this rye can provide excellent erosion control. If you're looking for a way to prevent soil erosion on your property, planting this cereal rye is an easy and effective solution.
Best Cover Crop For Deer FAQs
Are there any cover crops that can be planted specifically to target mature bucks?
While there is no single cover crop that can specifically target mature bucks, there are certain types of cover crops that can create the ideal habitat for deer. Bucks require a variety of foods throughout the year, and cover crops can help provide the necessary nutrition. Crops such as clover, alfalfa, and soybeans are known to be particularly attractive to deer, as they provide a combination of protein and carbohydrates. Additionally, planting crops with a mixture of grasses and legumes can provide cover for deer to bed down in during the day, as well as provide a source of food.
It's important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of cover crops in attracting deer will depend on the specific location and the type of deer that are present. Factors such as soil type, climate, and vegetation can all affect the success of cover crops. Consulting with a local wildlife biologist or hunting expert can help determine which cover crops may be best suited for attracting mature bucks in your area.
How do cover crops fit into a larger deer management plan?
Cover crops play an essential role in a larger deer management plan. Cover crops are plants that are primarily grown to protect and enrich the soil, but they can also provide an additional food source for deer. By planting cover crops strategically, landowners can create areas of high-quality forage that attract deer to specific locations on their property. This can be particularly useful during times of the year when natural forage is scarce.
Cover crops can also help to reduce soil erosion and suppress weed growth, which can improve the overall health and productivity of the land. This can ultimately lead to better habitat for deer and other wildlife, as well as improved hunting opportunities.
When incorporating cover crops into a deer management plan, it is important to consider the specific needs and preferences of the deer population in the area. Landowners should also consult with local wildlife experts to ensure that their cover crop choices are appropriate for the local ecosystem and will not have any unintended negative impacts. Overall, cover crops can be an effective tool for managing deer populations and improving the health of the land.
How do cover crops improve deer habitat?
Cover crops are an effective way to improve deer habitat as they provide a wide range of benefits that support the growth and development of deer populations. Cover crops are plants that are grown to protect and enrich soil and provide a habitat for wildlife. These crops can be grown in the fall and winter months when most other vegetation is not available, offering deer a source of food and cover during the critical winter months.
Cover crops help to improve the soil quality by increasing nutrient levels, reducing erosion and compaction, and improving water retention. This leads to the growth of healthy, nutritious plants that deer can feed on. Additionally, cover crops provide cover and shelter for deer, which can help protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Another benefit of cover crops is that they can attract insects and other small animals that deer feed on. This increases the diversity of food sources available to deer, which can improve their overall health and well-being.
Overall, cover crops are an effective way to improve deer habitat as they provide a range of benefits that support the growth and development of deer populations. By increasing the availability of food, cover, and shelter, cover crops can help ensure that deer populations remain healthy and sustainable for years to come.
How do I choose the right cover crop mix for deer?
When it comes to choosing the right cover crop mix for deer, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to choose a mix that will provide adequate nutrition for deer, such as cereal grains, legumes, and brassicas. Secondly, you'll want to select a mix that is palatable to deer and will encourage them to graze in the area. Lastly, it's important to choose a mix that will thrive in the specific soil and climate conditions of your area.
One popular option for a cover crop mix for deer is a blend of oats, clover, and brassicas. The oats provide a quick cover crop that the deer can graze on immediately, while the clover and brassicas provide long-term nutrition. Additionally, clover is a highly palatable plant for deer, which will encourage them to continue grazing in the area.
It's also important to consider the timing of planting your cover crop mix. Planting in the fall will provide a cover crop for winter grazing, while planting in the spring will provide a cover crop for summer grazing. By considering these factors and selecting the right mix for your area, you can create an ideal habitat for deer and encourage them to thrive in your land.
What are the advantages of using cover crops for deer management?
Cover crops have become a popular tool for deer management in recent years. There are several advantages of using cover crops for deer management.
Firstly, cover crops provide a source of food for deer during times when natural food sources are scarce. This can help to reduce damage to crops and other vegetation in the area, as deer are less likely to feed on these plants when they have an alternative food source.
Secondly, cover crops can provide cover and shelter for deer. This can be particularly important during the winter months, when deer need protection from the elements and predators.
Thirdly, cover crops can help to improve soil health and fertility. This is because the cover crops help to reduce erosion, increase organic matter content, and improve soil structure. This can result in healthier and more productive soils, which can benefit both the deer and other wildlife in the area.
Overall, using cover crops for deer management can be an effective and sustainable approach to reducing damage to crops and other vegetation, while also providing important benefits for deer and other wildlife.
What are the best cover crop strategies for enhancing deer hunting?
Cover crops can play a critical role in enhancing deer hunting by providing a reliable food source and shelter for deer. There are several cover crop strategies that hunters can use to improve their chances of success.
One popular strategy is to plant a mix of crops that provide both food and cover. This might include a mix of cereal grains, legumes, and brassicas. These crops can provide a diverse food source for deer, while also providing cover and protection from predators.
Another effective strategy is to use cover crops to create travel corridors that funnel deer movement. This can be achieved by planting strips of cover crops along established deer trails or between bedding areas and feeding areas.
Hunters can also use cover crops to create strategic hunting locations. This might involve planting crops in areas where deer are likely to congregate, such as near water sources or in areas with high deer traffic.
Ultimately, the best cover crop strategies for enhancing deer hunting will depend on a variety of factors, including local climate, soil conditions, and deer behavior. By experimenting with different strategies and observing deer behavior in the field, hunters can develop effective cover crop strategies that improve their chances of success.
What is the best cover crop for attracting deer?
When it comes to attracting deer, there are a variety of cover crops that can be effective. However, the best cover crop for attracting deer depends on several factors such as location, time of year, and soil type.
One popular option is clover, as it is high in protein and nutrients, making it a favorite food source for deer. Additionally, clover is a hardy crop that can grow in a variety of soils and climates. Another option is rye grass, which is known for its ability to provide cover for deer and other wildlife, as well as its ability to grow quickly.
Other cover crops that can be effective for attracting deer include soybeans, alfalfa, and oats. It's important to note that while cover crops can be a great way to attract deer, they should be used in conjunction with other food sources and management practices to ensure the health and sustainability of the deer population.
What is the best time of year to plant cover crops for deer?
The best time of year to plant cover crops for deer largely depends on the region and climate you are in. In general, cover crops should be planted at a time that allows them to establish before the cold winter months or hot summer months. This means that in many regions, the ideal time to plant cover crops for deer will be in the fall or early spring.
For example, if you are in a region with mild winters, planting cover crops in the fall will allow them to establish before the winter months, providing a food source for deer during the colder months. On the other hand, if you are in a region with hot summers, planting cover crops in the early spring will allow them to establish before the hot summer months, providing a food source for deer during the summer.
It is important to research the specific region and climate you are in to determine the best time to plant cover crops for deer. Additionally, it is important to choose cover crops that are suitable for your region and will provide the necessary nutrients and food sources for deer.
Which cover crop species provide the most nutrition for deer?
There are several cover crop species that provide good nutrition for deer, but the most nutritious ones include clovers, alfalfa, and brassicas. Clovers are an excellent source of protein and energy, and they are also rich in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Alfalfa is another high-quality forage that contains high levels of protein, energy, and minerals. Brassicas such as turnips, kale, and radishes are also highly nutritious and provide a good source of energy and protein for deer during the winter months. These cover crops can be planted in the fall and allow deer to graze on them during the winter when natural food sources are scarce. It's important to note that the nutritional content of cover crops can vary depending on the soil type, climate, and growing conditions, so consulting with a local wildlife biologist or agronomist can help determine the best cover crop options for your specific area.
Which legume cover crop is most attractive to deer?
Deer are known to be attracted to a variety of legume cover crops, but the most preferred one is clover. Clover is a highly nutritious and palatable legume that provides an excellent source of protein for deer. It is also easy to establish and maintain, making it a popular choice for hunters and land managers. Other legume cover crops that are attractive to deer include alfalfa, soybeans, and peas. However, it is important to note that the attractiveness of a legume cover crop to deer can vary depending on several factors, such as soil type, location, and weather conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a local agricultural extension office or a wildlife biologist to determine the best legume cover crop for your specific area and needs.
