What is the best greens for deer?

Table of Contents

The absolute best greens for deer are those that provide the most essential nutrients, palatability, and availability throughout the year, with clovers often cited as a top choice. However, the specific “best” green can vary depending on the region, season, and other food sources available.

Introduction: The Deer Diet Dilemma

Understanding the dietary needs of deer is crucial for wildlife enthusiasts, hunters, and landowners alike. Deer are opportunistic herbivores with a diverse diet that varies significantly depending on the season and the availability of food. While they consume a variety of foods, from acorns to twigs, greens play a vital role in their overall health, especially during periods of new growth and when other food sources are scarce. Knowing what is the best greens for deer? is key to supporting healthy deer populations.

The Importance of Greens in a Deer’s Diet

Greens provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are critical for deer survival and reproduction. Spring and early summer are particularly important times for greens as deer need the nutrients to recover from winter and support new growth. Greens offer:

High digestibility: Deer can easily break down and absorb the nutrients in many green plants.
Essential vitamins and minerals: These nutrients are critical for growth, antler development (in bucks), and reproduction.
Moisture content: Greens provide hydration, which is especially important during dry periods.
Fiber: Important for proper digestion.

Top Contenders for “Best” Greens for Deer

Several green plants are highly palatable and beneficial for deer. Deciding what is the best greens for deer? often boils down to regional availability and nutritional content.

Clovers: White clover, red clover, and ladino clover are excellent choices. They are highly palatable, nutritious, and relatively easy to establish. Clovers are legumes, meaning they fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility.
Alfalfa: Another legume with high protein and nutrient content. Deer readily consume alfalfa, and it provides excellent forage.
Brassicas: Plants like turnips, rape, and kale are also popular, especially as winter food sources. While not always considered “greens” in the strictest sense, the leafy parts of these plants provide valuable nutrients.
Native Grasses: Various native grasses, such as orchardgrass and fescue, can provide valuable forage. However, deer prefer broadleaf plants over grasses.
Forbs: A diverse group of broadleaf plants that are not grasses. Forbs such as chicory and plantain are highly palatable and nutritious for deer.

Considerations for Planting Food Plots

Planting food plots is a popular way to provide deer with supplemental food. When selecting greens for food plots, consider:

Soil conditions: Choose plants that are well-suited to the specific soil type and pH.
Climate: Select plants that are adapted to the local climate and growing season.
Deer density: Consider the number of deer in the area and the amount of forage needed.
Maintenance: Choose plants that are relatively easy to maintain and manage.
Planting Time: Time planting so greens are available when needed.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Greens

Many make mistakes that diminish their efforts to help deer flourish. Here are a few common errors:

Ignoring soil testing: Soil testing is essential to determine the nutrient needs of the plants.
Overgrazing: Allowing deer to overgraze can damage plants and reduce their productivity.
Poor weed control: Weeds can compete with desired plants and reduce forage availability.
Not considering regional availability: Failing to understand what grows well in your area.

Comparison of Common Greens for Deer

The following table provides a comparison of some common greens for deer:

Plant	Palatability	Nutritional Value	Growing Season	Soil Requirements
———–	————	——————	————–	—————–
White Clover	High	High	Spring/Summer	Well-drained
Red Clover	High	High	Spring/Summer	Well-drained
Alfalfa	High	High	Spring/Summer	Well-drained
Turnips	Moderate	Moderate	Fall/Winter	Well-drained
Chicory	High	Moderate	Spring/Summer	Well-drained

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What specific nutrients do greens provide to deer that are essential?

Greens are rich in essential nutrients, including protein, vitamins (especially A and E), and minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Protein is crucial for muscle development and antler growth in bucks. Vitamins A and E support overall health and immune function. Calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone and antler development.

How do seasonal changes impact the types of greens deer consume?

During spring and summer, deer primarily feed on lush, green vegetation such as clovers, alfalfa, and forbs. As fall approaches, their diet shifts towards mast crops (acorns, nuts) and winter greens like turnips and brassicas that can withstand colder temperatures. Winter forage might also include evergreen browse, such as pine and cedar, and dried forbs.

Are there any greens that are toxic or harmful to deer?

Yes, some plants are toxic to deer. Bracken fern is poisonous and can cause health problems if consumed in large quantities. Similarly, rhododendrons contain toxins that can be harmful. Oleander is also toxic. Deer usually avoid toxic plants, but it’s important to be aware of their presence, especially if deer are limited to specific feeding areas.

How does planting a variety of greens benefit deer populations?

Planting a variety of greens ensures a consistent and balanced food supply throughout the year. Different plants have different nutritional profiles and growing seasons. By offering a diverse range of options, deer can meet their nutritional needs more effectively, leading to healthier populations.

What are the benefits of using no-till planting methods for establishing green food plots?

No-till planting methods minimize soil disturbance, which helps preserve soil structure, reduce erosion, and conserve moisture. These methods also promote beneficial soil microbes, which improve nutrient availability. No-till planting is especially useful in areas with poor soil quality or limited access to traditional tillage equipment.

How can I protect newly planted greens from overgrazing by deer?

Fencing is an effective way to protect newly planted greens from overgrazing. Consider using temporary electric fencing or exclusion cages around individual plants. Alternatively, planting larger plots can distribute grazing pressure and reduce the impact on individual plants. Using deer repellent can also help until plants are more established.

What is the role of soil testing in selecting appropriate greens for deer?

Soil testing is crucial for determining the pH level and nutrient content of the soil. This information helps you select plants that are well-suited to the specific soil conditions. Soil testing also identifies any nutrient deficiencies that need to be addressed through fertilization. Ignoring soil testing is a common reason for food plot failure.

How often should I fertilize my green food plots?

The frequency of fertilization depends on the soil type, plant species, and growing conditions. As a general rule, fertilize in the spring before planting and again during the growing season if needed. Soil tests provide the most accurate recommendations for fertilization rates.

Can I mix different types of greens in my food plots?

Yes, mixing different types of greens is highly recommended. It creates a more diverse and resilient food source for deer. Consider mixing clovers with alfalfa or brassicas with cereal grains. This provides a variety of nutrients and ensures that some forage is available even if one plant type fails.

What role do native greens play in supporting deer populations compared to introduced species?

Native greens are adapted to the local environment and provide important habitat and food resources for deer and other wildlife. They are often more resilient to pests and diseases and require less maintenance than introduced species. However, introduced species like clovers and alfalfa can provide higher levels of nutrition and palatability. A balanced approach that incorporates both native and introduced species is often the most effective.

Are there any specific greens that are particularly beneficial for antler growth in bucks?

Legumes like alfalfa and clovers are particularly beneficial for antler growth because they are high in protein and essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus. These nutrients are critical for bone development and antler mineralization. Providing bucks with access to high-quality greens during the antler-growing season (spring and summer) can significantly improve antler size and quality.

How can I manage weed competition in my green food plots?

Pre-emergent herbicides can be used to prevent weed seeds from germinating. Post-emergent herbicides can be used to control existing weeds. Mowing can also help suppress weed growth and encourage the growth of desirable plants. Selecting weed-free seed is also essential, as is proper soil preparation.