What is the Best Corn to Plant for Deer: 5 Types

Corn is a popular food source for deer hunters. It provides necessary nutrients and energy that deer need to survive, especially during the colder months. However, not all corn is created equal when it comes to deer hunting. Hunters must choose the best type of corn to plant to ensure the highest yield and the most nutritional value for their deer herd.

Understanding Corn as a Deer Food Source is crucial for hunters who want to plant the best corn for their deer. Corn is a warm-season annual crop that provides both carbohydrates and fat to deer. It is not high in protein, but it is still a valuable food source for deer during the winter. Corn is also an excellent cover crop that provides shelter for deer, making it a great addition to any food plot.

Types of Corn to Plant for Deer vary depending on the hunter’s goals. Some hunters prefer to plant sweet corn, while others prefer field corn. Sweet corn has a higher sugar content, making it more palatable to deer. Field corn, on the other hand, has a higher starch content, making it more energy-dense. Both types of corn are suitable for deer, but hunters should choose the type that best suits their needs.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding Corn as a Deer Food Source is crucial for hunters.
• Hunters must choose the best type of corn to plant to ensure the highest yield and the most nutritional value for their deer herd.
• Types of Corn to Plant for Deer vary depending on the hunter’s goals.

Learn more from related content:

How Late Can You Plant Corn for Deer? 7 Best Tips on Optimal Planting Time

How Many Acres Can One Bag of Corn Plant?

Understanding Corn as a Deer Food Source

Corn is a popular food source for deer and is often used in deer food plots. It is a warm-season grass that produces grain on ears that grow along the stem. Although corn grain carries a protein level of 7 to 11 percent, it is high in fat and carbohydrates, making it a great source of energy for deer in the fall and early winter.

Deer are attracted to corn because it is high in carbohydrates, which they need to build up fat reserves for the winter. However, it is important to note that corn is not a nutritionally complete food source for deer. According to the Michigan DNR, corn is low in fiber, which can lead to digestive problems in deer if it is the only food source available.

When planting corn for deer, it is important to choose the right variety. The best corn to plant for deer is a variety that produces a high yield of grain and has a high level of digestibility. It is also important to choose a variety that is resistant to disease and pests, as this will help ensure a healthy crop.

When planting corn in a deer food plot, it is important to consider the location and soil conditions. Corn requires well-drained, fertile soils that farm equipment can get into easily. Food plots with rough land, poor drainage, or low fertility will not grow a good corn crop. Corn also requires more farm equipment to plant and manage than most food plot crops.

What is the Best Corn to Plant for Deer

When it comes to planting corn for deer, there are different types of corn to choose from. Each type of corn has its own unique characteristics that make it suitable for deer. Here are some of the types of corn that are ideal for planting for deer.

1. Field Corn

Field corn is one of the most common types of corn that is grown in the United States. It is typically used for animal feed and ethanol production. Field corn is a great option for planting for deer because it is high in starch and provides a lot of energy for deer. However, it is important to note that field corn is not as palatable as other types of corn.

2. White Corn

White corn is a type of corn that has a sweeter taste than yellow corn. It is also higher in protein and lower in starch than yellow corn. White corn is a good option for planting for deer because it is more palatable than field corn.

3. Heirloom Varieties

Heirloom varieties of corn are older varieties that have been passed down from generation to generation. They are typically open-pollinated and have not been genetically modified. Heirloom varieties of corn are a good option for planting for deer because they are more palatable than field corn and have a unique flavor.

4. Non-GMO Corn

Non-GMO corn is corn that has not been genetically modified. It is a good option for planting for deer because it is more palatable than field corn and does not contain any genetically modified organisms.

5. Dwarf Corn

Dwarf corn is a type of corn that is shorter than traditional corn plants. It is a good option for planting for deer because it is easier for deer to reach the ears of corn. Dwarf corn is also less susceptible to lodging, which is when the stalks of corn fall over.

Nutritional Value of Corn for Deer

Corn is a popular food plot crop for deer hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. It is a warm-season grass that produces grain on ears that grow along the stem. Although corn grain carries a protein level of 7 to 10 percent, it is high in fat and carbohydrates. It is a great source of energy for deer in the fall and early winter. This high-energy food can be vitally important in the northern areas of the United States and Canada, where deer often face harsh winters.

Corn is also known for containing essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. It also contains trace amounts of other minerals like zinc, copper, and manganese. These nutrients are important for the overall health and growth of deer.

Deer can consume both the corn kernels and the stalks. The stalks are a good source of fiber and can help keep the deer’s digestive system healthy. The kernels, on the other hand, are high in carbohydrates and provide the deer with the energy they need to survive and grow.

It is important to note that not all types of corn are suitable for deer. The best corn to plant for deer food plots is field corn. Choose late-maturing varieties if you want to leave corn standing in the plot for winter feeding. Avoid white corn and silage corn. There are many varieties of field corn, and many that are designed for the region of the U.S. where you plan to plant. The best way to select a variety is to consult with your local agricultural extension office or a knowledgeable seed dealer.

Planting Corn for Deer

When it comes to planting corn for deer, there are a few things to keep in mind. This section will cover the steps to prepare the soil, choose the right corn seed, the planting process, and managing weeds and pests.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting corn for deer, it is essential to prepare the soil properly. A soil test is a great starting point to determine the soil’s pH, nutrient levels, and any other potential issues. Corn prefers a loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If the soil is too acidic, lime can be added to raise the pH level.

Corn is a heavy feeder and requires plenty of nitrogen. It is recommended to apply 120-150 pounds of nitrogen per acre before planting. Fertilizers high in nitrogen are ideal for corn growth. Additionally, corn benefits from cover crops and perennials such as clover and alfalfa.

Choosing the Right Corn Seed

When choosing the right corn seed for deer, farmers should consider their planting goals. For example, if the goal is to provide a food source for deer during the fall and winter, a late-maturing corn seed is ideal. On the other hand, if the goal is to provide a food source during the summer, an early-maturing corn seed is a better choice.

Hybrids are a popular choice for corn seed because they are more resistant to disease and pests. Farmers can choose between conventional or genetically modified (GMO) corn seed, depending on their preferences.

Planting Process

Corn can be planted using a variety of methods, including broadcasting, drilling, or using a planter. Broadcasting involves spreading the seed over the soil surface, while drilling involves placing the seed in rows using a drill. Using a planter is the most precise method and ensures the seed is placed at the right depth.

Corn should be planted at a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches in soil temperatures of at least 50°F. After planting, the soil should be cultipacked to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Managing Weeds and Pests

Weeds and pests can be a significant issue when planting corn for deer. To manage weeds, farmers can use herbicides such as glyphosate. It is important to note that glyphosate is harmful to nitrogen-loving plants such as beans and can harm the soil’s health in the long term.

To manage pests, farmers can use insecticides or biological control methods. It is important to monitor the corn for pests regularly and take action if necessary.

Effects of Corn on Deer’s Health

Corn is a popular food source for deer, especially during the fall and winter months when other food sources are scarce. However, it is important to consider the effects of corn on deer’s health before planting or using it as a food source.

One of the main concerns with corn is that it is high in carbohydrates and low in fiber, which can lead to digestive issues in deer. Overeating corn can cause bloating, diarrhea, and other digestive problems, which can negatively impact a deer’s health and well-being.

In addition, corn is not a particularly nutritious food source for deer. While it does contain some protein, it is low in essential vitamins and minerals that deer need to thrive. This can lead to malnutrition and other health problems, especially in young or pregnant deer.

Another concern with using corn as a food source for deer is the potential impact on antler growth. While corn does provide energy for deer, it does not contain the necessary nutrients for antler growth. Overfeeding deer with corn can actually lead to reduced antler growth and overall health.

When and How to Harvest Corn for Deer

Harvesting corn for deer can be a great way to attract and keep deer on your property. However, it is important to know when and how to harvest corn to ensure that it is both effective and safe for the deer.

In general, corn should be harvested when it is fully mature and the kernels are hard and dry. This typically occurs in the late summer or early fall, depending on the location and climate. In the North, corn may mature later due to shorter growing seasons, while in the South, corn may mature earlier due to longer growing seasons.

It is important to wait until after the first frost to harvest corn for deer. This is because the frost helps to break down the starches in the corn, making it more digestible for the deer. If you harvest the corn before the first frost, the deer may have difficulty digesting it, which can lead to digestive issues and even death.

When harvesting corn for deer, it is important to do so in a way that is safe for the deer. This means leaving enough corn on the stalks for the deer to eat throughout the winter. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 50% of the corn on the stalks, although some hunters may choose to leave even more.

To harvest corn for deer, hunters can use a variety of methods, including handpicking, using a combine, or even using a corn picker attachment on a tractor. The method chosen will depend on the size of the plot and the equipment available.

Frequently Asked Questions