How to Start Food Plots in Wisconsin

Choosing Your Plot and Your Plants

• 1

  Size and locate your plot. Food plots should ideally be at lease one-quarter acre and receive three to four hours of sun per day.

• 2

  Send soil samples out for analysis. The University of Wisconsin has a soil analysis lab at the West Madison Agricultural Research Station that can test your soil for acidity and nutrient levels. To get a reliable soil sample, dig up random samples in a zigzag pattern across the plot from a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Mix them together and send approximately 1 lb. for analysis.

• 3

  Plant to what USDA plant hardiness zone your land is in. Wisconsin ranges from 3a to 5b. A map of hardiness zones is available from the U.S. National Arboretum.

• 4

  Buy your seeds. Most food plots are planted with a mix of beans, grains and forage plants. Clover is especially good for deer, as it provides protein that helps with antler growth. Keep the results of your soil analysis handy when you go to your seed supplier.

• 5

  Till the soil. Break it up to a depth of a foot with a plow or disc. On smaller plots this can be done using hand tools.

• 6

  Add fertilizer to the soil. Also add lime if your soil test showed it to be too acidic.

• 7

  Smooth the plot bed with a heavy roller. Your roller can be a barrel full of water pulled behind a tractor or truck.

• 8

  Cast your seeds. Throw them by hand evenly around the plot area, then roll them over with the roller.