Sunday, July 10, 2016

5 Year Blacktail Food Plot

Before Rota tilling
After
 Started my blacktail food plot a little later this year than normal.  I rota tilled and planted last week in May.  I am hoping by doing this there will be less weeds and other plants taking over the food plot.  This year I went all clover, its high in protein and does well when its wet.  I don't expect it to be as hot and dry as it was last year in Washington the el nino effect is over.  I have let my fruit trees grow for about 5 years without pruning.  That way they get above the deer and brush and now I will prune this coming year and start a good umbrella shape and hopefully produce more fruit that way.  If I was able to manage this plot more constantly I would recommend, clover, peas, one day I would like to focus on alfalfa but that seems to struggle in this area.  But the year goal would be to have a year round food plot.  Especially during the winter months when they struggle with hair loss.  I have yet to have success hunting over it but in the meantime its been a real joy to watch grow.  It's added value and has offered a great learning experience.  I still believe that natural food plots are the way to go.  Good old clearcuts.    Anyway hope you enjoy the post and would love to see you all successful this coming year.  Good Luck.