Mississippi deer plots may still benefit from replanting

Most of Mississippi received less than an inch of rain in September and October, leaving many deer food plots struggling, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks said.

Plots planted in late September or October that did not get enough rain to germinate may still have viable seeds that can begin growing after a soaking rain, the department said. Earlier plantings that germinated may not have survived the heat and drought.

The department recommends cold-tolerant options for replanting, including wheat, cereal rye, Austrian winter peas and crimson, red or white clover. Oats and brassicas, such as turnips and radishes, may attract deer but are less tolerant of mid- to late-winter temperatures.

Food plots can be especially important in January and February, when acorns and other natural food sources become limited, the department said. Fertilizer applied at planting may remain available in the soil, so another application may not be necessary.

Source: Original Article