Corn is a popular food source for deer, and many hunters and wildlife enthusiasts wonder how late in the year they can plant corn for deer. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the region where the corn will be planted, the specific corn seed variety, and the weather conditions during the growing season.
Understanding the importance of corn for deer is essential before planting. Corn provides a high-energy food source for deer, which is especially important during the fall and winter when other food sources are scarce.
Planting corn for deer can also help attract more deer to a particular area, making it easier for hunters to find and observe them. However, it’s important to choose the right corn seed and planting time to ensure a successful crop that will benefit both deer and humans.
When it comes to planting corn for deer, the ideal planting time and conditions vary depending on the region.
In general, corn should be planted in the spring or early summer, but the exact timing will depend on factors such as the climate, soil conditions, and the specific corn seed variety. It’s also important to prepare the soil properly before planting and use the right planting techniques and tools to ensure the best possible results.
Key Takeaways on How Late Can You Plant Corn for Deer
- Corn is an important food source for deer, especially during the fall and winter.
- The ideal planting time and conditions for corn vary depending on the region and other factors.
- Proper soil preparation, planting techniques, and maintenance are essential for a successful corn plot that will attract and benefit deer.
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Understanding the Importance of Corn for Deer
Corn is a crucial food source for deer, especially during the fall and winter months when other food sources become scarce. It is a high-energy food that provides deer with the necessary nutrients to survive and thrive. In this section, we will explore the importance of corn for deer and its nutritional value.
Nutritional Value of Corn
Corn is a rich source of carbohydrates, which provides deer with the necessary energy to survive during the winter months when food is scarce.
It is also high in fat, which helps deer maintain their body weight and stay warm during the colder months. However, corn is low in protein, which is essential for deer to produce large antlers and healthy fawns.
Energy and Protein
Deer require a lot of energy to survive during the winter months, and corn provides them with the necessary energy to do so. However, corn is low in protein, which is essential for deer to develop and maintain their muscles and antlers.
Therefore, it is important to supplement corn with other high-protein food sources like soybeans and brassicas.
Planting Corn for Deer
Planting corn for deer is a great way to attract and keep them on your property. However, it is important to plant corn at the right time of the year to ensure optimal growth and yield. Late May to mid-June is the ideal time to plant corn in the northern states, while late April to May is the ideal time to plant in the southern states.
Cost and Maintenance
Corn requires a lot of fertilizer, especially nitrogen, making it a more expensive food plot crop. It also requires regular maintenance, including weed control and pest management. However, the benefits of planting corn for deer far outweigh the costs and maintenance requirements.
Choosing the Right Corn Seed
When it comes to planting corn for deer, choosing the right corn seed is crucial. The type of seed used can impact the yield of the crop, the maturity of the corn, and the overall production of the field.
One important factor to consider when selecting a corn seed is the maturity of the plant. Late planting of corn for deer requires a specific maturity level to ensure that the corn has enough time to mature before the first frost. It is recommended to choose a hybrid with a maturity level of 80-90 days for late planting.
Another factor to consider is the yield potential of the seed. Higher yielding seed corn can result in more ears of corn per acre, which can be beneficial for deer populations. However, it is important to note that higher yielding seed may require more fertilizer and water to achieve maximum yield potential.
In addition to maturity and yield potential, it is important to consider the overall quality of the seed. High-quality seed will have a higher emergence rate and will be more resistant to disease and pests. It is recommended to purchase seed from a reputable dealer to ensure the best quality.
When planting corn for deer, it is also important to consider the spacing of the seed. Planting at a higher rate can result in more plants per acre, which can increase the yield potential. However, it is important to ensure that the plants have enough space to grow and develop properly.
Ideal Planting Times and Conditions
Corn is a popular food source for deer, and planting corn in the right conditions and at the right time can help ensure a successful harvest. The ideal planting times for corn can vary depending on the region, but generally, corn should be planted in the spring when soil temperatures reach at least 50°F.
Planting corn too early can result in poor germination rates, while planting too late can reduce yield potential. In general, the best time to plant corn for deer is between mid-April and mid-May, depending on the region and weather conditions.
When planting corn, it is important to consider the amount of rainfall in the area. Corn requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season, and planting during a dry spell can result in poor germination rates and stunted growth. If rainfall is scarce, it may be necessary to irrigate the crops to ensure adequate moisture.
Soil temperature is another important factor to consider when planting corn. Corn seeds will not germinate until the soil reaches a certain temperature, and planting too early can result in poor germination rates. In general, soil temperatures should be at least 50°F before planting corn.
In terms of weather conditions, planting corn during a dry spell can result in poor germination rates and stunted growth.
On the other hand, planting during a period of heavy rain can lead to soil erosion and washout. Ideally, corn should be planted during a period of moderate rainfall, which can help ensure consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
Preparing the Soil for Planting
Before planting corn for deer, it’s important to prepare the soil properly to ensure a successful crop. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Soil Test
First, it’s essential to perform a soil test to determine the soil’s nutrient levels and pH. The soil test results will indicate if the soil needs any amendments, such as lime, to adjust the pH levels. Adjusting the pH levels will help the corn plant to absorb nutrients efficiently.
2. Lime
If the soil test shows that the pH levels are too low, adding lime is necessary. Lime raises the pH levels, making the soil less acidic. The recommended amount of lime to apply depends on the soil test results and the type of lime used. It’s recommended to apply lime at least six months before planting.
3. Fertilize
Corn plants require a lot of nutrients to grow correctly, and the soil may not have enough of these nutrients. Fertilizing the soil is essential to provide the corn plant with the nutrients it needs.
The type of fertilizer to use depends on the soil test results. It’s important to follow the recommended application rates to avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the corn plant.
4. Seed Bed
Creating a suitable seed bed is crucial for the corn seed to germinate correctly. The soil should be tilled to a depth of 6-8 inches to create a loose, well-aerated seed bed. The seed bed should be free of weeds, rocks, and other debris that can interfere with germination.
5. Nitrogen
Corn plants require a lot of nitrogen to grow, and it’s essential to apply nitrogen fertilizer at the right time. Applying nitrogen fertilizer too early can cause the corn plant to grow too tall and weak, while applying it too late can result in poor yields. It’s recommended to apply nitrogen fertilizer when the corn plant is about 6-12 inches tall.
Planting Techniques and Tools
When it comes to planting corn for deer, there are several techniques and tools that can be used. The choice of technique will depend on the size of the plot, the equipment available, and the budget.
Broadcasting
Broadcasting is a common technique used to plant corn for deer. It involves spreading the seed over the ground using a broadcast seeder or a hand-held spreader.
This technique is best suited for small plots or areas that are difficult to access with large equipment. Broadcasting can be done by hand, but it is more efficient to use a spreader. The seed can be mixed with fertilizer to ensure better germination.
Drilling
Drilling is another technique that can be used to plant corn for deer. It involves using a drill to place the seed at a specific depth in the soil. This technique is best suited for larger plots and can be done using a corn planter or a grain drill. Drilling allows for better seed-to-soil contact and can result in better germination rates.
Cultipacker
A cultipacker is a tool that can be used to pack the soil after planting. It helps to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and can improve germination rates. A cultipacker can be pulled behind a tractor or ATV and is often used in conjunction with a drill or corn planter.
Harrow
A harrow is another tool that can be used to prepare the soil for planting. It is used to break up clumps of soil and level the ground. A harrow can be pulled behind a tractor or ATV and is often used before broadcasting or drilling.
Disk
A disk is a tool that can be used to prepare the soil for planting. It is used to break up the soil and create a seedbed. A disk can be pulled behind a tractor or ATV and is often used before broadcasting or drilling.
Maintaining the Corn Plot
Once the corn plot is established, it is essential to maintain it to ensure a good yield. One crucial aspect of corn plot maintenance is weed control. Corn does not compete well against weeds, so it is essential to control weeds to prevent them from competing with the crop for nutrients, sunlight, and water.
There are several ways to control weeds in a corn plot. One common method is to use herbicides. Glyphosate is a popular herbicide that is effective in controlling weeds in corn plots. It is a broad-spectrum herbicide that kills most weeds without harming the corn.
Glyphosate is also used in Roundup Ready corn, which is genetically modified to be resistant to glyphosate.
Another way to control weeds is to use cover crops. Cover crops are plants that are grown in between rows of corn to prevent weeds from growing. Cover crops also help to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health. Some popular cover crops for corn plots include clover, rye, and wheat.
In addition to weed control, it is also essential to fertilize the corn plot to ensure a good yield. Corn requires a lot of nitrogen, so it is important to fertilize the plot with nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Nitrogen can be applied to the corn plot in several ways, including through a broadcast spreader, a planter, or a side-dress applicator.
Dealing with Challenges and Threats
Late planting of corn for deer can be challenging due to various factors such as drought, frost, wildlife, and animals, including turkeys. These challenges can affect the growth and development of the corn, potentially reducing the yield and quality of the crop.
One of the major challenges that late-planted corn may face is drought. Drought can cause the soil to dry out, making it difficult for the corn to germinate and grow.
To mitigate the effects of drought, it is recommended to plant corn in well-drained soil and to irrigate the crop regularly. Additionally, farmers can consider planting drought-resistant varieties of corn to minimize the impact of drought.
Frost is another threat that can affect the growth of late-planted corn. Frost can damage the leaves and stalks of the corn, potentially reducing the yield and quality of the crop.
To minimize the impact of frost, farmers can plant corn in areas with good air circulation and avoid planting in low-lying areas where frost is more likely to occur.
Wildlife, including deer and turkeys, can also pose a threat to late-planted corn. These animals can damage the corn by eating the leaves and stalks, potentially reducing the yield and quality of the crop.
To prevent wildlife damage, farmers can install fencing around the cornfield or use repellents to deter animals from entering the field.
Additional Food Sources for Deer
Aside from corn, there are many other food sources that deer can feed on during the late season. Providing a variety of food options can help ensure that deer remain healthy and well-fed throughout the season.
Food Plots
Food plots are a great way to provide additional food sources for deer. Annuals such as soybeans, clover, and cereal grains can be planted in the late summer or early fall to provide a food source for deer during the late season. Perennials such as chicory can also be planted to provide a long-term food source for deer.
Brassicas
Brassicas, such as turnips and radishes, are another great food source for deer during the late season. These plants are high in nutrients and are often used in food plots to attract deer.
Standing Crops
Standing crops such as corn and soybeans can also provide a food source for deer during the late season. However, it is important to note that these crops are often harvested before the late season, so it is important to plant them early enough to ensure that they are still available during the late season.
Natural Food Sources
Deer also feed on a variety of natural food sources during the late season. Acorns, for example, are a great food source for deer and can often be found on the ground during the late season. Other natural food sources include fruits and berries, as well as browse such as leaves and twigs.
Attracting Deer to the Corn Plot
When it comes to attracting deer to a corn plot, timing is everything. Late summer and early fall are the best times to plant corn for deer, as this is when the deer are most active and looking for food. Planting during this time will ensure that the corn is fully mature and ready for the deer to eat by the time hunting season rolls around.
Gamekeepers looking to attract deer to their corn plot should consider using Green Patch Plus or Maximum.
These annual plantings are designed specifically for deer and will provide a high-quality source of food that they will find irresistible. If planted and given enough water within 8-10 days, deer may begin browsing on them within 2 weeks after planting.
Another option for attracting deer to the corn plot is to use Last Bite or Final Forage. These plantings are designed to be planted in the late summer or early fall and will provide a high-quality source of food for deer during the hunting season.
For those in the deep south, it is important to note that planting times may vary due to the warmer climate. September is a good time to plant corn for deer in the south, as this will give the corn enough time to mature before hunting season begins.
Considerations for Different Regions
When it comes to planting corn for deer, the timing can vary depending on the region. It is important to consider the climate, soil, and other factors when deciding when to plant. Here are some considerations for different regions:
North
In the northern regions, it is generally recommended to plant corn for deer in late May to early June. This timing allows for the corn to mature before the first frost in the fall.
Farmers in the north should also consider the soil temperature and moisture levels before planting. Late planting into warmer soil and adequate moisture can lead to a higher emergence rate of the corn.
South
In the southern regions, the planting season for corn for deer can start as early as late April or May. However, farmers should be aware of the risk of drought and high temperatures during the summer months. To mitigate these risks, they should consider planting drought-resistant varieties of corn and using irrigation systems.
Ontario
In Ontario, the planting season for corn for deer can start as early as late April or May, but it is generally recommended to plant in early to mid-May.
Farmers in Ontario should also consider the soil temperature and moisture levels before planting. Late planting into warmer soil and adequate moisture can lead to a higher emergence rate of the corn.
Other Considerations
In addition to the region, there are other considerations to keep in mind when planting corn for deer. Farmers should consider the type of soil they have and the amount of sunlight the planting area receives.
They should also choose the right variety of corn for their specific needs, as some varieties are better suited for deer hunting than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest date to plant corn for a food plot?
The latest date to plant corn for a food plot depends on the region and climate. In general, it is recommended to plant corn for deer in the spring or early summer, as it takes around 80 to 100 days to mature.
However, in some areas, it is possible to plant corn as late as mid-July and still have a successful food plot.
Is August too late to plant corn for deer?
August is generally too late to plant corn for deer, as the crop will not have enough time to mature before the first frost.
Corn needs around 80 to 100 days to mature, and planting in August would mean that the crop would not be ready until late October or early November, which is too late for deer hunting season in most areas.
When should you plant field corn for deer?
Field corn for deer should be planted in the spring or early summer, depending on the region and climate. It is important to plant field corn early enough to allow the crop to mature before the first frost.
Field corn takes around 80 to 100 days to mature, so it is recommended to plant it in late May or early June in most areas.
Can you plant feed corn for deer later in the season?
It is possible to plant feed corn for deer later in the season, but it may not be as successful as planting in the spring or early summer.
Late-season planting may result in a smaller crop, as the corn will not have enough time to mature fully. It is recommended to plant feed corn for deer in the spring or early summer to ensure a successful food plot.
What is the best time to broadcast corn for food plots?
The best time to broadcast corn for food plots is in the spring or early summer, depending on the region and climate.
Broadcasting corn in the spring allows the crop to establish itself before the hot summer months, which can be stressful for the plants. It is important to plant corn early enough to allow the crop to mature before the first frost.
How long does it take for corn to mature for deer?
Corn takes around 80 to 100 days to mature for deer. It is important to plant corn early enough to allow the crop to mature before the first frost. Mature corn is an excellent food source for deer, as it is high in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy for the animals.
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