Food Plots
Development, Planting, & Maintenance
Food Plot Overview
Food plots are small areas of land that are planted with a variety of crops and plants to provide food and cover for wildlife, particularly for game animals such as deer, turkeys, and ruffed grouse. Food plots have become increasingly popular among hunters, landowners, and wildlife enthusiasts for their numerous benefits. Here are some of the benefits of food plots:
Improved wildlife habitat: Food plots provide a source of food and cover for wildlife, helping to improve their overall habitat.
Increased hunting opportunities: Food plots can attract game and non-game animals to specific areas.
Nutritional benefits: Food plots provide a diverse array of crops and plants that can supplement the diets of wildlife.
Soil conservation: The planting of food plots can help to reduce soil erosion and improve soil quality, leading to better overall land management.
Ecological diversity: Food plots can provide a range of plant species that can support a variety of insects, birds, and other wildlife.
Start to Finish Food Plot Development
Food plot development is a multi-step process of designing and creating an area of land for enhancement of wildlife viewing opportunities. FutureWood Land Services can turn any suitable part of your property into a high-yielding food plot and maintain it for you year after year.
Food Plot Construction
Food plot construction involves selecting the ideal location for the plot, clearing the area of any unwanted vegetation or debris, and preparing the soil for planting. Once the area has been cleared and prepared, it is time to select the crops to be planted. It is essential to choose the right crops that are suitable for the soil type, climate, and intended wildlife species.
Fertilizer & Soil Amendments
Fertilizer and soil amendments are crucial in ensuring the growth and success of the food plot. It is important to perform soil tests to determine any deficiencies in the soil and to apply the appropriate fertilizers and soil amendments to correct any issues. The proper application of fertilizer and soil amendments ensures that the crops have the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and optimum production.
Licensed Pesticide Application
Weed and pest control is another critical aspect of food plot development. This involves applying herbicides, insecticides, or other necessary chemicals to control pests and weeds that can potentially harm the crops. FutureWood Land Services and our applicators are state licensed and will make pesticide applications in a safe and controlled manner.
Planting
Various planting methods can be used for your food plots depending upon soil conditions, food plot size and accessibility, and the type of crops being planted. FutureWood Land Services is capable of all popular wildlife food plot grains and forages and will find the right planting technique to suit your property. We can also advise you on the timing of your plantings and help you manage your food plots through every season.
Habitat Management
Habitat management is the final step in food plot development. It involves managing the surrounding habitat to enhance the overall success of the food plot. This includes managing the surrounding vegetation, water sources, and creating shelter areas for wildlife. You can also work with a professional FutureWood forester about managing your forested land at a much broader scale.