Does your deer hunting spot get a lot of shade? Many hunters struggle with this because most deer food plots need lots of sunshine to grow well. This can be a big problem if you only have shady areas on your land. It’s tough to know which plants will actually grow and attract deer in these tricky spots.
But don’t worry! You don’t have to give up on those shaded areas. This blog post is here to help. We’ll show you exactly what you need to know to create a successful deer food plot, even when the sun doesn’t shine much.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand which plants are the best choices for shady spots. You’ll learn how to pick the right seeds and get your plot growing strong. Get ready to turn those shady corners into prime deer attractors!
Our Top 5 Shade Tolerant Deer Food Plot Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Shade Tolerant Deer Food Plot Detailed Reviews
1. Domain Outdoor Big Sexy Food Plot Seed for Deer
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to attract more deer to your hunting grounds with Domain Outdoor’s Big Sexy Food Plot Seed! This special mix is designed to provide deer with the nutrients and protein they need to thrive, especially during the colder months. It’s packed with hardy varieties of turnips, radishes, kale, and forage rape that deer absolutely love. Plus, it’s super easy to plant and grows fast, so you can see results quickly.
What We Like:
- Provides high levels of protein and nutrients to support antler growth and overall deer health.
- Contains special varieties of turnips, radishes, kale, and forage rape that are cold-tolerant and highly attractive to deer.
- Features leafy and bulb-producing plants that can withstand heavy grazing pressure.
- Germinates quickly and is easy to plant, making it perfect for hunters of all experience levels.
- One jug covers a generous 1/2 acre, offering great value for creating a substantial food plot.
- Comes in a reusable container, which is convenient for storage and future use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product name, while memorable, might be considered a bit too informal for some users.
- Specific details on the exact nutrient breakdown or protein percentage per plant variety are not immediately provided on the packaging.
If you’re looking for a food plot that delivers results from the first day of the season to the last, Big Sexy is a fantastic option. It’s a simple way to create a high-quality food source that will keep deer coming back.
2. Evolved Habitats Throw & Gro X-treme w/Radish Forage for Deer – Easy-to-Plant Fast-Growing No-Till Food Plot Seeds
Rating: 9.0/10
Want to give the deer in your area a super nutritious meal? The Evolved Habitats Throw & Gro X-treme w/Radish is a fantastic food plot seed mix. It’s packed with protein and minerals, and the radishes grow super fast. This makes it a delicious and healthy option for deer, especially during important growing times or tough seasons.
What We Like:
- It’s very nutritious and tasty for deer.
- You can plant it without any tilling or heavy equipment.
- This saves you a lot of time and effort.
- It’s easy to plant, just spread the seeds.
- You can plant it in spring or fall for year-round benefits.
- It helps deer get the protein and minerals they need.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions suggest dragging the plot if the ground isn’t broken, which might require some extra effort.
This seed mix is an excellent way to improve your hunting land. It’s a simple solution for creating effective food plots that deer will love.
3. Whitetail Institute BowStand Deer Food Plot Seed
Rating: 9.2/10
Are you a bow hunter looking to draw deer into those hidden spots in your woods? The Whitetail Institute BowStand Deer Food Plot Seed is made just for you. This special mix is an annual forage, meaning it grows for one season. It’s perfect for small, out-of-the-way food plots where you want to attract deer for bow hunting. You don’t need fancy equipment to plant it, as you can use simple hand tools.
What We Like:
- Attracts deer to small, remote spots, ideal for bow hunting.
- Features new, tasty radishes and lettuce, plus other highly attractive plants.
- Easy to plant with minimal ground preparation, even with hand tools.
- Grows well in shady areas and is very tough against drought and cold.
- Includes something to help the soil, making it better for plants even if the soil is a bit acidic.
What Could Be Improved:
- As an annual, it needs replanting each year.
- The specific results can vary depending on your local soil and climate conditions.
The BowStand seed makes creating effective hunting spots easier. It’s a smart choice for bow hunters wanting to improve their chances.
4. HIT LIST SEED® Chicory Food Plot Seeds for Deer [PERENNIAL] – Deer Food Plot Seed Chicory – Deer Plot Seed Mix Perennial – 100% Chicory – High Protein & Shade Tolerant – All Seasons Planting – 2.5 lbs
![HIT LIST SEED® Chicory Food Plot Seeds for Deer [PERENNIAL] - Deer Food Plot Seed Chicory - Deer Plot Seed Mix Perennial - 100% Chicory - High Protein & Shade Tolerant - All Seasons Planting - 2.5 lbs](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51s9kTbZPeL._SL500_.jpg)
Rating: 9.1/10
The HIT LIST SEED® Chicory Food Plot Seeds for Deer are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to create a top-notch deer habitat. This perennial chicory is packed with nutrients, and deer absolutely love it. It’s easy to grow, making it perfect for both experienced hunters and those just starting out with food plots. Plus, it can handle tough conditions like drought and shade, and it keeps coming back for years.
What We Like:
- Drought, shade, and pH tolerant: Chicory is super tough! Its deep roots mean it needs very little water. It also grows well in shady spots and doesn’t mind different soil pH levels.
- High Protein: This seed boasts an impressive 30% protein content, giving deer the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
- Easy for Everyone: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this seed is a winner. It germinates fast and is simple to get growing.
- Long-Lasting: As a perennial, this chicory will keep coming back year after year, providing food for up to 3 years without needing to replant.
- Deer Magnet: Deer can’t resist chicory! It’s one of their favorite foods when planted in a food plot.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2.5 lb bag might be a bit small for very large food plots.
Overall, HIT LIST SEED® Chicory is a reliable and effective way to boost your deer herd’s health and attraction. It’s a low-maintenance, high-reward option for any hunter’s arsenal.
5. EVOLVED HARVEST Throw & Gro No-Till Forage for Deer – Easy-to-Plant Fast-Growing Food Plot Seeds
Rating: 8.6/10
Want to give your deer herd a tasty and healthy meal? The EVOLVED HARVEST Throw & Gro No-Till Forage for Deer is a super easy way to do it. This 5-pound bag is packed with seeds that grow fast and provide deer with the protein and minerals they need to thrive. You can create your own special feeding spot without all the hard work.
What We Like:
- Nutritious and Delicious: It’s a mix of ryegrass, clover, and brassica that deer love and that’s good for them.
- Easy to Plant (No-Till): You don’t need to plow or use big equipment. Just spread the seeds and let them grow.
- Great for Any Spot: Plant it in hard-to-reach places where you might not normally be able to.
- Fast Growing: Your deer will have food quickly.
- Plant Anytime: Works well for spring planting to help deer during the summer, and fall planting to help them through tough winter months.
- Saves Time and Effort: No-till means less work for you.
What Could Be Improved:
- Ground Contact: For best results, you might need to drag the planted area to make sure seeds touch the soil.
- Coverage: The 5lb bag covers 1/4 acre, so you might need more for larger areas.
This seed mix is a fantastic option for any deer hunter or land manager looking for a simple way to boost their local deer herd’s nutrition. It makes creating a food plot easier than ever.
Shade Tolerant Deer Food Plot: A Smart Choice for Hunters
Q: Why should I choose a shade-tolerant food plot mix?
A: Deer need food year-round. Sometimes, the best spots in your hunting area don’t get much sunlight. A shade-tolerant food plot mix lets you grow tasty plants for deer even in wooded areas or places with tall trees. This means more food for the deer, and better chances for you to see them.
Q: What are the main key features to look for?
A: When picking a shade-tolerant food plot mix, look for these key features:
- Shade Tolerance: This is the most important feature. The plants in the mix should grow well with less than 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Deer Appeal: The plants should be something deer love to eat. Think protein-rich clover, tasty brassicas, and nutritious grains.
- Nutritional Value: Good food plots offer a balanced diet. Look for mixes with a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and minerals.
- Ease of Planting: Some mixes are easier to get started than others. Look for varieties that don’t need a lot of special preparation.
- Drought Resistance: Even in shady spots, dry spells can happen. Plants that can handle a little dryness will give you a better plot.
- Perennial vs. Annual: Perennials come back every year, while annuals need to be replanted. Consider what works best for your planting schedule.
Q: What are the important materials in a good shade-tolerant mix?
A: The best mixes use a variety of plants. Some common and effective plants include:
- Clover: White clover and red clover are deer favorites. They are hardy and offer great protein.
- Chicory: This plant is tough and can grow in many conditions. Deer love its taste and it’s good for them.
- Brassicas: This group includes turnips, radishes, and rape. They grow fast and are full of energy.
- Grains: Oats and wheat are great for fall and winter. They provide much-needed carbohydrates.
- Forage Peas: These add protein and nitrogen to the soil, which helps other plants grow better.
Q: What factors improve or reduce the quality of a food plot mix?
A: Many things can make your food plot better or worse:
- Soil Test: Knowing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels helps you pick the right plants and add what’s missing. This greatly improves quality.
- Proper Planting Depth: Planting seeds too deep or too shallow can stop them from growing. Follow the package directions.
- Weed Control: Weeds steal water and nutrients from your food plot plants. Keeping weeds down is key.
- Adequate Moisture: Even shade-tolerant plants need water to grow.
- Overgrazing: If deer eat the plot too much, especially young plants, it can damage the stand.
- Seed Quality: Using fresh, high-quality seeds from a reputable brand leads to better results. Old or poor-quality seeds will reduce your success.
Q: How do users typically experience and use these food plots?
A: Hunters use shade-tolerant food plots in several ways:
- Attracting Deer: Plots are planted in areas where deer already travel but might not find enough food, like near bedding areas or travel corridors.
- Holding Deer: A good food plot keeps deer in your hunting area longer, especially during hunting season.
- Improving Herd Health: Providing nutritious food helps deer grow bigger and healthier.
- Observation: Hunters often sit near food plots to watch deer behavior and plan their hunts.
Most users find success when they prepare the soil well and follow planting guides. They often see more deer activity in their shaded areas after planting. Some users report that certain brassica mixes can be a bit tough for young deer to eat initially, but mature deer usually love them. The key to a good user experience is patience and understanding that it takes time for the plot to establish and for deer to discover it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shade Tolerant Deer Food Plots
Q: What is the best time to plant a shade-tolerant food plot?
A: The best time depends on your climate. Generally, early fall is a good time for many shade-tolerant mixes, allowing them to establish before winter. Spring planting is also an option for some varieties.
Q: How much seed do I need for my food plot?
A: Seed coverage varies by product. Always check the seed bag for the recommended planting rate per acre or square foot. This will help you buy the right amount.
Q: Can I plant this mix in an area with very little sunlight (deep shade)?
A: While these mixes are “shade-tolerant,” they still need some light. Very deep shade might limit growth. Look for mixes that specifically mention tolerance for “partial shade” or “low light conditions.”
Q: What if I have rocky soil?
A: Many shade-tolerant plants, like clover and chicory, can handle less-than-perfect soil. However, removing large rocks will help seeds get good contact with the soil and improve germination.
Q: How long does it take for a shade-tolerant food plot to grow?
A: Most seeds will sprout within 7-14 days, depending on the conditions. Full establishment can take several weeks to a couple of months, with plants reaching their full potential by their first full growing season.
Q: Do I need to fertilize my food plot?
A: A soil test is the best way to know if you need fertilizer. Most mixes benefit from a balanced fertilizer, especially if your soil lacks nutrients. Follow the recommendations from your soil test or the seed package.
Q: How do I keep weeds from taking over my food plot?
A: Proper soil preparation helps. Keeping the plot mowed at the right height can also help your desired plants outcompete weeds. For severe weed problems, specific herbicides might be needed, but be sure they are safe for deer food.
Q: Can I mix different shade-tolerant seed varieties?
A: Yes, mixing varieties can create a more diverse and appealing food source. Just make sure the plants have similar growing needs and light tolerances.
Q: Will deer eat the plants in this mix immediately?
A: Deer will typically start browsing on young, tender plants. However, it may take some time for them to discover and get used to a new food plot. Patience is key.
Q: What is the lifespan of a shade-tolerant food plot?
A: This depends on the mix. Perennial mixes, like clover and chicory, can last for several years. Annual mixes will need to be replanted each year.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.