Planting Turnips and Radishes for Deer: Timing is Everything

Turnips and radishes are popular food attractions for deer, making them a great addition to your feeding strategy. Knowing when to plant them is crucial to their growth and success. Here are some tips on when to plant turnips and radishes for deer.

Fall is the Best Time

The best time to plant turnips and radishes for deer is in the fall. This is because the cooler temperatures of autumn promote better germination and growth of the seeds. In addition, fall planting allows turnips and radishes to mature and develop sweeter flavors, making them more attractive to deer.

Timing Matters

Timing is everything when it comes to planting turnips and radishes for deer. You want to plant them early enough in the fall to allow them to mature before the winter months, but not too early that they are consumed before hunting season. Ideally, you should plant turnips and radishes in late summer or early fall. This will give them enough time to grow and develop, while still being available during the hunting season.

Planting Techniques

When planting turnips and radishes, it is important to choose an area with good soil drainage, full sun, and adequate moisture. You should also prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and adding compost or fertilizer. For best results, plant the seeds in rows and cover lightly with soil. Over time, the seeds will germinate and grow into healthy plants that attract deer.

Maintenance and Harvesting

After planting turnips and radishes, it is important to maintain the soil moisture and weed control. You may also need to add a deer repellent to prevent them from eating the plants before you are ready. When the turnips are mature, you can use a food plot harvester to harvest them or simply pull them out of the ground by hand. Radishes can be harvested by pulling them or using a garden fork to loosen the soil around them.

Conclusion

If you are looking to attract deer to your property for hunting or observation, planting turnips and radishes is a great way to do so. However, timing is everything when it comes to planting these vegetables. By planting in the fall, timing the planting just right, using proper planting techniques, and maintaining and harvesting the plants, you can create a successful food plot that will attract deer and enhance your hunting and wildlife experience.