Instructional Videos

Warm Season Plantings

Based on observations from demonstration plantings, we recommend using warm season legumes that are able to tolerate a variety of growing conditions for Mississippi soil types. We found Iron & Clay peas to be superior to Lab Lab and Soybeans when planted during April and May of the year. This variety also seems to withstand low soil moisture and high browsing pressure better than the other two varieties.

When selecting or formulating a mix to produce leafy forage and grain for wildlife, always use a mix with at least 5 varieties. Formulate these mixes at liberal rates for a more complete and productive mix. By incorporating legumes, like Iron & Clay peas, Alyce clover, Buckwheat and others into this mix, you will increase attractiveness to a wider diversity of wildlife including game and non-game birds and mammals.

Mixes that were formulated with Sunflower, Grain Sorghum, Proso Millet, and Brown-top Millet provided seed at staggered intervals across the growing season and attracted a wider variety of wildlife to plot locations. By using these mixes, managers can target multiple game species with one planting.

Incorporate perennials like Crimson Clover, Arrowleaf Clover, Ladino Clover, and Durana Clover into your food plot plan. These varieties can be planted as a border around existing plots or as independent plots. For more information about forage plantings for wildlife refer to MSU-ES publication 2111 “Wildlife Food Planting Guide for the Southeast” for establishment and management recommendations for wildlife forage plantings.