As an outdoors writer, one of the things I see people often needing help with is how to create effective food plots. When done correctly, they create opportunities for hunters, nature lovers, and photographers who enjoy observing wildlife up close.
As hunting season approaches, the preparation begins for hunters. Food plots are essential for anyone looking to attract animals to a specific area to increase chances of hunting success or to capture incredible photos of wildlife.
So, what is a food plot? Food plots are carefully designed feeding areas that attract game animals like deer, turkeys, and even smaller species. Let’s go over some of the dos and don’ts of planning, planting, and maintaining one.
Why Food Plots Are Valuable for Hunters and Nature Lovers
Food plots serve a simple but essential purpose — they provide animals with a consistent food source.
Food plots are a game-changing tool for hunters looking to lure animals to a specific area, increasing the likelihood of a successful hunt. For non-hunters, food plots open up opportunities to observe wildlife behavior in a way that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. Wildlife photographers, outdoors writers, and bird watchers can easily attract a wide array of animals, giving them repeatable chances to capture stunning images.
Unlike baiting, which is often regulated or prohibited in certain areas, food plots offer a natural and ethical way to attract wildlife. They also contribute to conservation by providing desperately needed nourishment, especially during lean seasons and areas where natural food sources may be scarce.
How to Plan the Perfect Food Plot
Planning a food plot begins with understanding the animals you want to attract and your working environment. Here are some main considerations for an effective food plot:
Location is Everything
The placement is what makes or breaks a food plot. Choose areas already frequented by animals, like established trails, bedding areas, or timberlines. Animals prefer places with natural cover and easy escape routes, as they feel safer there. A well-positioned food plot attracts more wildlife and encourages them to return regularly.
Understand Animal Diets
Most animals rely heavily on what biologists call “browse.” This includes leaves, twigs, and other vegetation they eat as they move through their range. Incorporating familiar browse-like plants into your plot helps it fit into the target’s natural diet, making it irresistible. Varied seed mixes are especially effective because they’ll attract different species at different times, creating a dynamic feeding area.
Keep It Low-Stress for Animals
Wildlife will only linger in your food plot if they feel comfortable and secure. Avoid placing your plot in open, exposed areas that leave animals vulnerable. Instead, choose spots surrounded by natural vegetation or near tree lines. You can mimic safety using switchgrass or another barrier plant. The more secluded the plot, the longer the animals will stay.
The Practical Side of Planting Food Plots
Planting food plots can be as easy or involved as you want it to be. Preparing the ground with a tractor and using a seeder will yield impressive results for those with the right equipment. However, you don’t need heavy machinery to create an effective food plot. No-till seed mixes are a growing trend in food plot planting, and they’re perfect for hobbyists and beginners.
Traditional Food Plot Planting
- Step 1: Use a tractor or ATV to clear the area of debris and vegetation.
- Step 2: Plow the soil to loosen it, making it easier for seeds to germinate.
- Step 3: Prepare the soil by incorporating lime.
- Step 4: Use a seeder or spreader to plant your seeds evenly across the plot.
- Step 5: Fertilize and water the area if needed to encourage growth.
No-Till Food Plot Planting
For those without equipment, no-till mixes are a game-changer. These seed blends are designed to grow without the need for soil preparation. You simply scatter the seeds across an area with light ground cover—such as a corner of a pasture, a timberline, or even a backyard—and let nature do the rest. No-till plots are particularly popular among wildlife photographers, outdoors writers, and hobbyists who want a quick and easy way to attract animals.
The Growing Popularity of Food Plots Among Non-Hunters
While hunters have long understood the value of food plots, these planted areas are gaining popularity among wildlife photographers, bird watchers, and even amateur naturalists.
By planting a mix of seeds, you’ll attract a variety of animals. Depending on what you plant, you’ll attract deer, turkeys, songbirds, small mammals, and predator species such as foxes and hawks. For photographers, this means having multiple opportunities to capture unique moments throughout the day.
Food plots really do provide a unique window into animal behavior. As an outdoors writer, watching how animals interact with each other and their environment fascinates me. Food plots make these moments more predictable. After all, part of hunting is observing and growing in your appreciation for nature.
Tips from an Outdoors Writer to Level Up Food Plots
Here are a few things you can do to level up your food plot:
Use Seed Mixes for Longer Seasons
A diverse mix of seeds extends the growing period of your food plot, so there’s always something fresh for animals to eat. A solid variety helps attract a broader range of species and keeps animals coming back.
Start Small and Experiment
If you’re new to food plots, start with a small, manageable area. Observe how animals respond and make adjustments going forward in future seasons.
Think Long-Term
Food plots are an investment in both time and effort, so try to remain adaptable. Over time, you’ll learn which plants thrive in your area and which ones attract the animals you’re targeting.
Food Plots and Conservation
Hunters know food plots contribute to conservation by supporting wildlife during scarce times, droughts, and population booms. They’re an opportunity for hunters to prepare for a successful deer season while preserving the sport they love. Non-hunters can make a difference by safeguarding at-risk wildlife populations while enjoying nature.
Conclusion
Food plots are more than just a hunting tool — they’re a gateway to deeper connections with nature.
Whether you’re pursuing game, photographing wildlife, or observing animals in their natural habitat, food plots make these experiences richer and more accessible. As an outdoors writer, I know their benefits well, so I encourage anyone interested in the outdoors to consider planting a food plot. It’s a rewarding way to attract wildlife, support conservation, and create unforgettable outdoor experiences.
