When to Plant Your Turkey Food Plot for a Deliciously Successful Season
As a turkey hunter, you know the importance of attracting these wary birds to your hunting grounds. One of the best ways to do this is by planting a food plot specifically designed to entice them. But when you plant this plot is crucial for its success.
Planting for Late March Turkey Season
If your turkey season starts in late March, like in Morgan County Georgia, timing your planting is essential. You want the plot to be established and attractive to turkeys by the time the season opens.
Winter Wheat: Your Go-to for Early Season
For a late March season, winter wheat is your best bet. Plant it in mid-February, and it should be a couple of inches tall by opening day, providing a readily available food source for the turkeys.
Other Options for Early Season Planting
While winter wheat is a great choice, you have other options for early-season planting:
- Crimson clover: This perennial clover is a favorite of turkeys and can be mixed with winter wheat for added attraction. However, it won’t be fully established until the following fall, so its impact on the early season might be limited.
- Other clovers: Perennial clovers planted in the fall can be a good option for the following spring season, offering a long-lasting food source.
- IC peas and soybeans: These can be planted in the spring and provide a good source of protein for turkeys.
Planting for Fall and Winter Turkey Seasons
If your turkey season falls later in the year, you have more options for planting.
Chufa: A Turkey Favorite for Late Season
Chufa is a highly attractive food source for turkeys, especially as the weather cools down. However, it needs a long growing season, so plant it in late April to early June in the South and early May to early June in the North. This ensures the tubers have enough time to develop before the first frost.
Other Late-Season Options:
- Sorghum, millets, and sunflowers: This mix, known as WhistleBack, provides a diverse food source for turkeys and other birds. Plant it in late spring and early summer for a late-season feast.
- Fall-planted clovers: These will be well-established by the time turkey season arrives, offering a reliable food source.
Considerations for Your Turkey Food Plot
Beyond timing, other factors can affect your turkey food plot’s success:
- Soil type: Chufa thrives in loose, sandy soil, while winter wheat can tolerate clay soils.
- Fertilization: Consider fertilizing your plot with 0-20-20 in March to boost growth.
- Weed control: Use appropriate herbicides to keep weeds at bay and ensure your plot thrives.
Remember: Always research and choose the best planting options for your specific region and climate.
Happy planting, and happy turkey hunting!
Food Plots for Turkey Hunting! – S9 #6
FAQ
What is the best food plot for turkeys?
What and when to plant for turkeys?
What month should you plant food plots?
What is the best crop to plant for turkeys?
Are spring turkey plots dangerous?
While food plots are most often associated with fall deer hunting, a green spring plot can be absolutely deadly on spring gobblers. The great thing about spring turkey plots is that they don’t need to be large or involve heavy equipment to work.
What do turkeys eat in the fall?
This must have been a travel corridor for turkeys. As I was planning our fall food plots this past year, I thought, “Let’s put in some turkey-specific plots.” The good news is turkeys love eating the same mixes you plant for whitetail deer in the fall — oats, winter wheat, brassicas, etc.
Is Clover a good food plot for turkeys?
Perhaps the king of turkey food plots, clover provides nearly year-round attraction. From tender green growth the turkeys crave in the spring, to a massive insect load, clover keeps their bellies full. While the previous food plots mentioned are considered annuals, a good clover spot can last a few years. That longevity comes with a price.
How do you set up a turkey food plot?
The most critical step of establishing a successful turkey food plot is placement. To know where to establish the plot, it’s important to understand the preferred habitat of wild turkeys. Turkeys spend a lot of their time in heavily wooded areas and mature forests feeding on nuts, berries, seeds and insects.