How to Plant Food Plots for Hunting
For hunters and landowners across Texas, one of the most effective ways to attract and sustain deer on your property is learning how to plant food plots for hunting. The toughest time of year for deer is right after the rut (mid-October to early December) when they roll straight into the winter months. With very little natural forage available, a strategically planted food plot provides the nutrition deer need to recover, thrive, and grow trophy-sized racks for the next season.
Why Plant Food Plots for Hunting?
Establishing food plots to create a quality protein source is essential to raising trophy game on your property. It ensures the deer on your property have a quality food source to build their bodies back up, and grow trophy-sized racks for the next season. As Texas Parks & Wildlife points out in their guide, Appendix N: Food Plots for White-tailed Deer, well-planned plots of wheat, oats, and legumes during the winter have strong benefits in terms of digestible protein and deer nutrition.
What to Plant for Winter Food Plots
In Texas, we recommend planting winter wheat. This cool-season grass grows green throughout the colder months and is one of the best protein-rich forages available. For landowners looking to maximize nutrition, consider planting a specialized blend of small grains and legumes to provide a more diverse nutrient profile for deer.
How to Plant a Winter Food Plot
Don’t let the process intimidate you—learning how to plant food plots for hunting is simpler than it sounds.
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Prep the soil – Use a hand rake to break up the top layer of dirt, or if available, a tractor with a disc implement to better disturb the soil.
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Spread the seed – A basic push spreader (the same type used for fertilizing grass at home) works well. Larger plots can benefit from a tractor or ATV seed drill.
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Incorporate moisture – For best germination, plant after a rainfall when the soil is moist.
When to Plant a Winter Food Plot
The best time to plant winter wheat or blends in Texas is late September through October, when temperatures begin to drop. This timing ensures strong germination and steady growth throughout the winter season.
Pro Tips for Better Food Plots
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Mix granular fertilizer with your seed at planting for healthier growth.
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Consider a blended seed mix to provide deer with more than just protein—nutrient diversity improves herd health.
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Monitor soil moisture and rainfall to give your crop the best start.
Need Help Planting Food Plots?
If you’re not sure where to start, connect with a local farmer or land manager who can help prepare and plant your food plots. At Ekdahl Real Estate, our agents support landowners well beyond the sale—we can help connect you with trusted local partners to establish thriving food plots on your property.
