Biology And Management Of White-tailed Deer In Alabama

Applying the Seed
Seed should be applied to a well-prepared seedbed to help ensure
the seed have good soil contact and are covered to a uniform depth.
Using a culti-packer or drag on a plowed field prior to applying seed
helps create a smooth, firm seedbed. Seed can be applied with a handheld
spreader, large capacity seed/fertilizer spin spreader, or a grain drill.
It is important to distribute the seed uniformly across the field. If a
handheld spreader or larger spin spreader is used, it will be necessary
to cover the seed. Seed can be covered using a drag, a culti-packer, or
by lightly discing. It is important not to cover the seed too deep. Covering
seed too deep will keep most of the plants from ever emerging from
the soil. Larger seed, such as wheat or soybeans, should be covered no
more than 1/2 to 1 inch. Smaller seed, such as clovers, should be covered
no more than 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
What to Plant
The growing interest in deer management and the increased
awareness of the nutritional requirements of deer has given rise to a
tremendous assortment of crop seed and seed mixes developed solely
for white-tailed deer. Just as the decision of size and number of openings
depends on the purpose of the plantings, the decision of what species
to plant also depends on the purpose of the plantings. If the main purpose
is to attract deer for harvest, planting small grains, such as wheat,
oats, or rye, will work fine. These crops grow well during hunting season
and are readily eaten by white-tailed deer. Unfortunately, their
productivity and palatability decline rapidly in late winter and early
spring, which is a time when naturally occurring foods are scarce.
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