Tired of watching deer bypass your meticulously planned food plots? Are you searching for a forage that provides consistent nutrition and holds deer attention season after season? Chicory might be the transformative solution you’ve been seeking. This hardy perennial is rapidly gaining popularity among deer managers for its exceptional nutritional value, palatability, and ability to thrive under diverse conditions.
Chicory, with its deep taproot and rosette-forming leaves, is more than just a pretty plant. It’s a powerhouse of protein and essential minerals, vital for deer growth, antler development, and overall health. But its benefits extend beyond mere nutrition. Chicory boasts an impressive drought tolerance, ensuring a reliable food source even when other forages wither under the summer sun. Its ability to regrow after heavy grazing makes it a resilient choice for areas with high deer densities. This guide will cover everything you need to know about establishing and maintaining a thriving chicory food plot for deer, from initial site preparation to long-term management, guaranteeing a consistent and highly attractive food source that will keep deer coming back for more.
Why Chicory Attracts Deer
The Nutritional Edge
One of the primary reasons chicory food plots for deer are so effective is their exceptional nutritional profile. Chicory is a protein powerhouse, typically containing between fifteen and thirty percent crude protein, depending on the variety and growing conditions. This high protein content is critical for deer, especially during periods of rapid growth, antler development in bucks, and lactation in does. Protein is the building block of tissue, and deer require ample amounts to reach their full potential. Furthermore, chicory is highly digestible, meaning deer can efficiently extract nutrients from the plant. This efficient digestion ensures that deer receive the maximum benefit from every bite.
Beyond protein, chicory is rich in essential minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Calcium and phosphorus are vital for bone and antler growth, while potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance and nerve function. These minerals, combined with the high protein content, make chicory a complete and balanced food source for deer throughout the year.
Palatability and Long-Term Attraction
Nutritional value alone isn’t enough to make a successful deer food plot. The forage must also be palatable and appealing to deer. Chicory excels in this area. Deer find chicory highly palatable, especially during the late summer and early fall when other food sources begin to decline in quality. Its slightly bitter taste seems to be particularly attractive to deer. Chicory maintains its palatability throughout the growing season, unlike some forages that become coarse and less appealing as they mature.
Chicory’s perennial nature also contributes to its long-term attraction. Once established, chicory plants can persist for several years, providing a consistent food source year after year. This reduces the need for annual replanting and ensures that deer always have a familiar and reliable food source available.
Resilience and Growth Habits
Chicory’s robust growth habits make it a practical choice for deer food plots. It’s known for its excellent drought tolerance, thanks to its deep taproot that can access water deep within the soil profile. This drought tolerance ensures that chicory remains productive even during dry spells when other forages struggle. Chicory also exhibits remarkable regrowth after grazing. It can withstand heavy grazing pressure and quickly recover, continuing to produce new growth and provide a continuous food source for deer.
Planning for Success with Chicory
Site Selection is Key
The success of your chicory food plot hinges on careful site selection. Chicory thrives in areas that receive ample sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient sunlight can lead to weak, spindly growth and reduced forage production. Consider the soil type when choosing a site. Chicory prefers well-drained, loamy soils with good fertility. However, it can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are not excessively wet or acidic. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Accessibility is another important factor to consider. Choose a site that is easily accessible for planting, maintenance, and hunting.
Soil Testing and Preparation
Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of your soil. A soil test will provide valuable information about any deficiencies that need to be addressed. Chicory thrives in soils with a pH between six and seven. If your soil is too acidic (pH below six), apply lime to raise the pH to the optimal range. Lime takes time to react with the soil, so it’s best to apply it several months before planting. Based on the soil test results, apply fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients for chicory growth. A balanced fertilizer blend with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) is generally recommended. However, the specific NPK ratio will depend on your soil test results.
Proper seedbed preparation is essential for successful chicory establishment. Clear the planting area of any existing vegetation and till the soil to create a smooth, firm seedbed. A firm seedbed ensures good seed-to-soil contact, which is critical for germination. You can use a variety of tillage implements, such as a disc harrow or a rotary tiller, to prepare the seedbed.
Planting Chicory
Seed Selection Matters
Choosing the right chicory variety is crucial for maximizing the success of your food plot. Several chicory varieties are available, each with slightly different characteristics. Consider factors such as growth habit, leaf shape, and disease resistance when selecting a variety. Some varieties are more upright, while others have a more prostrate growth habit. Some varieties are also more resistant to certain diseases than others. Purchase high-quality seed from a reputable source to ensure good germination rates and healthy plants.
Timing is Everything
The optimal planting time for chicory depends on your climate and region. In most areas, spring planting is recommended, typically between late March and early May. Spring planting allows the chicory plants to establish a strong root system before the heat of summer. Late summer or early fall planting is also possible, typically between August and September. Fall planting allows the chicory plants to overwinter and establish fully in the spring. Avoid planting during the hottest part of the summer, as the seedlings may struggle to survive.
Seeding Rate and Planting Methods
The recommended seeding rate for chicory is typically between four and six pounds per acre. The specific seeding rate will depend on the planting method. If you are broadcasting the seed, use the higher end of the recommended seeding rate. Broadcasting involves spreading the seed evenly over the prepared seedbed. After broadcasting, lightly cover the seeds with soil using a drag or cultipacker. Drilling is another planting method that involves using a no-till drill to place the seeds at a precise depth in the soil. Drilling typically results in better germination rates and more uniform stands. If you are using a no-till drill, you can use the lower end of the recommended seeding rate.
Post-Planting Care
After planting, lightly compact the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. This can be done with a cultipacker or a roller. Weed control is essential during the establishment phase. Weeds can compete with the chicory seedlings for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Pre-emergent herbicides can be used to prevent weed germination. Post-emergent herbicides can be used to control existing weeds. Choose herbicides that are specifically labeled for use on chicory. Consult with your local agricultural extension agent for recommendations on the best herbicide options for your area.
Maintaining a Healthy Chicory Plot
Fertilization for Continued Growth
Annual fertilizer applications are necessary to maintain the nutrient levels in your chicory food plot. The specific fertilizer requirements will depend on your soil test results. However, a general recommendation is to apply a balanced fertilizer blend with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive weed growth. Perform a soil test every year or two to monitor nutrient levels and adjust your fertilization plan accordingly.
Weed Control Strategies
Weed control is an ongoing process in chicory food plots. Monitor your food plot regularly for weeds and take action as needed. Selective herbicides can be used to control broadleaf weeds and grasses without harming the chicory plants. Mowing can also be an effective weed control method. Mowing helps to suppress weed growth and promote new growth in the chicory plants. Mow your chicory food plot several times during the growing season, typically when the plants reach a height of twelve to eighteen inches.
Grazing Management for Longevity
Proper grazing management is essential for maximizing the longevity of your chicory food plot. Rotational grazing is a beneficial practice. This involves dividing your food plot into sections and rotating grazing pressure between the sections. This allows the chicory plants in one section to recover while the deer are grazing in another section. Rest periods are also important. Allow the chicory plants to rest and replenish their root reserves periodically. This will help to ensure that the plants remain healthy and productive over the long term.
Overseeding to Fill Gaps
Over time, bare spots may develop in your chicory food plot due to grazing, disease, or other factors. Periodically overseeding these bare spots with chicory seed can help to maintain a dense stand of chicory. Overseeding is best done in the spring or fall. Before overseeding, lightly till the bare spots to prepare a seedbed. Broadcast the chicory seed evenly over the bare spots and lightly cover the seeds with soil.
Addressing Common Chicory Problems
Troubleshooting Germination Issues
Poor germination can be a frustrating problem when establishing a chicory food plot. Several factors can contribute to poor germination, including inadequate soil moisture, poor seed-to-soil contact, and incorrect planting depth. Ensure that the soil is adequately moist before planting. Lightly compact the soil after planting to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Plant the seeds at the recommended depth, typically one-quarter to one-half inch.
Combating Weed Infestations
Weed infestations can quickly overwhelm a chicory food plot, especially during the establishment phase. Identify the common weeds in your area and choose herbicides that are effective against those weeds. Apply herbicides according to the label instructions. Mowing can also help to control weed growth. However, be careful not to mow too low, as this can damage the chicory plants.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Chicory is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some insect pests, such as aphids and grasshoppers, can occasionally cause damage. Monitor your food plot regularly for pests and diseases. If you notice any problems, take action as needed. Organic control options, such as insecticidal soap, can be used to control some pests. Chemical control options are also available, but use them sparingly and according to the label instructions.
Enhancing Your Chicory Plot
Forage Mixes
Chicory can be effectively combined with other forages to create a more diverse and attractive food plot for deer. Beneficial combinations include mixing chicory with clover, alfalfa, or brassicas. Clover provides nitrogen fixation and improves soil health. Alfalfa is another high-protein forage that is attractive to deer. Brassicas, such as turnips and rape, provide a valuable food source during the late fall and winter. A diverse food plot offers several benefits, including improved soil health, increased palatability, and extended forage availability.
Chicory as a Nurse Crop
Chicory can also be used as a nurse crop to establish other forages. A nurse crop provides temporary cover and weed suppression while the other forages are establishing. Chicory is a good choice for a nurse crop because it establishes quickly and is relatively easy to manage. When using chicory as a nurse crop, seed it at a lower rate than you would if you were planting it as a standalone crop.
Conclusion
Chicory food plots for deer offer a multitude of benefits for both deer and land managers. From its exceptional nutritional value and palatability to its resilience and ease of maintenance, chicory is a valuable addition to any deer management program. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can establish and maintain a thriving chicory food plot that will attract and nourish deer year after year.
Are you ready to take your deer hunting success to the next level? Start planning your chicory food plot today and experience the difference! With proper planning, planting, and maintenance, you can create a lush and productive food source that will benefit deer and enhance your hunting opportunities. Embrace the power of chicory and unlock the full potential of your deer management efforts.
