At a coup d’oeil
Growing corn for deer can be an incredibly rewarding experience , providing a high-pitched - quality food source that attracts and sustains deer universe . Whether you ’re a veteran hunter or simply desire to enhance your property’swildlife habitat , this comprehensive guide will outfit you with the knowledge and techniques you need to train a thriving edible corn crop that willdelight deerand enhance your outside adventures .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
The first step in growing corn for deer is selecting the right land site . Choose an area thatreceives plentyof sun , has well - drain soil , and is protect from implosion therapy . train the soil by tilling it to a depth of 6 - 8 in and move out any rocks or rubble . Foroptimal growth , the grunge should have a pH of 6.0 - 6.5 .
Variety Selection
Choosing the good variety of Indian corn is all important for maximizing deer attraction . Sweet corn whisky varieties , such as ‘ Honey and Cream ’ or ‘ Silver Queen , ’ are extremely toothsome todeer dueto their high gelt content . Field corn varieties , such as ‘ trailblazer ’ or ‘ Dekalb , ’ produce larger issue and are also a good choice .
Planting Timing and Depth
Theoptimal planting timefor edible corn varies depending on your location . In general , flora corn when the dirt temperature reaches 55 ° F at a depth of 2 inches . Plant the seeds 1 - 2inches deepinrows spaced30 - 36 column inch apart .
Fertilization
Zea mays requires sizeable nutrients for proper outgrowth . fertilise the crop atplanting timewith a balanced plant food , such as 10 - 10 - 10 . Side - dress the crop withadditional nitrogen fertilizerwhen the works are 12 - 18 inches tall .
Weed Control
widow’s weeds can contend with corn for nutrient and piddle , reducing yields . ascendance weeds by using herbicides or by hired man - pull . Mulching around the plants can also help suppress green goddess .
Irrigation
Corn requires even lacrimation , especially during hot , wry weather condition . Water thecrop deeplyand infrequently , allowing the dirt to dry out somewhat between lacrimation .
Deer Protection
Once the clavus begins to get on , it becomes aprime targetfor cervid . Protect the crop by using fencing material or repellents . electrical fencing is aneffective deterrent , while commercial-grade cervid repellents can also be effective .
Harvesting
corn whisky is ready for crop when the kernels arefully developedand the husks haveturned brown . Cut thestalks closeto the ground and let them to dry out in the field for several days before storing .
Key Points: A Bountiful Harvest for Deer and Landowners
grow corn for deer is arewarding endeavorthat can heighten your property ’s wildlife habitat and provide a valuable food source for deer . By following the steps outlined in this guide , you could cultivate a booming corn crop that will appeal andsustain cervid populationsfor years to get along .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : What is the good time toplant cornfor deer?A : Theoptimal planting clock time change dependingon your localization , but more often than not when thesoil temperature reaches55 ° F.Q : How often should Ifertilize cornfor deer?A : Fertilize the crop at planting sentence with abalanced fertilizerand side - dress with additional nitrogen plant food when the plants are 12 - 18 inches tall . Q : How do Iprotect cornfrom deer?A : Use fencing or repellant to deter deer from feed on the harvest . electrical fencing is aneffective check , whilecommercial deer repellentscan also be effective . Q : When iscorn readyfor harvest?A : Corn is ready for harvest when the kernels arefully developedand the stalk have turned brown . Q : How long does it take Indian corn to grow?A : Corn typically takes90 - 120 days to mature .
