So, you're thinking of growing turnips for deer? Excellent choice! Turnips are a deer's dream - a tasty, high-energy food source that can keep your local herd happy and healthy. But before you grab your seed bag and start scattering, let's talk timing. Because, as with any good hunting strategy, when you plant is almost as important as what you plant. Get it right, and you'll be well on your way to attracting (and hopefully harvesting!) some impressive bucks. Get it wrong, and you'll be staring at a field of… well, not much.
This isn't rocket science (unless you're a rocket scientist who also happens to be obsessed with deer - in which case, welcome!), but a little knowledge of your local climate and the deer's dietary preferences goes a long way. We'll delve into the sweet spot for planting turnips, considering factors like climate, soil conditions, and, of course, the deer themselves.
Let's face it: planting turnips at the wrong time is a recipe for disappointment. Think of it like trying to catch a fish with a rusty hook. You might get lucky, but your chances are significantly improved if you use the right gear at the right time. Planting turnips is no different.
The ideal planting time for turnips varies based on your geographic location and climate. However, a general rule of thumb is to plant turnips about 60-90 days before the first expected frost. This allows the turnips enough time to establish themselves before the cold weather sets in and the deer start their heavy feeding phase. Think of it as giving them a head start in the race to grow a delicious snack. The 60-90 day window offers a good balance for both the tops and the roots to develop their full potential, providing the maximum amount of food for the deer during the crucial fall and winter months.
Consider this: If you live in an area with a relatively mild fall and winter, you might be able to push the planting window a bit later. Conversely, if you live in a region with early frosts, you'll want to err on the side of planting a bit earlier. This is where local knowledge comes in handy. Talk to other hunters, local agricultural experts, or even your local feed and seed store. They'll have the inside scoop on the best times to plant in your specific area. They are your local weather whisperers, if you will.
Beyond the general time frame, pay close attention to the weather forecast. Avoid planting immediately before a heat wave or a prolonged dry spell. Turnips need moisture to germinate and thrive. Planting just before a soaking rain is ideal. Essentially, you want to give those little seeds the best chance to sprout and grow into a leafy, root-filled buffet for your deer friends. Think of it as giving them a five-star meal service for a reasonable price. You do the work, and the deer do the rest.
While the calendar provides a good starting point, several other factors can influence the optimal time to plant turnips for deer. Ignoring these considerations is like trying to build a house on quicksand - it's likely to end in disaster. Soil health is one of them. Healthy soil is like a fertile ground for turnips. Before planting, it's a good idea to have your soil tested to check for nutrient deficiencies. Turnips thrive in soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, you may need to amend it with lime or other soil amendments.
Another essential component to consider is the type of turnip you are planting. Different varieties have different maturity dates. Some are ready for harvest in as little as 60 days, while others take longer. Choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate and your deer's dietary needs. Some varieties are better at producing large roots, while others are better at producing leafy tops. The best choice is the one that best fits your particular strategy.
Finally, don't forget about the deer themselves. Their feeding habits will influence when they start consuming your turnips. In areas with abundant natural food sources, deer may not start heavily feeding on turnips until late fall or early winter. In areas with limited food, they may start sooner. This is another reason to gather intel from local hunters and adjust your planting strategy accordingly. Observation is key. You could be setting up a feast, but if they are not hungry, it is all in vain.
To ensure your turnip planting is a success, here's a checklist to keep you on track. It's not exhaustive, but it's a pretty good starting point. First, prepare your soil. This involves tilling the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches to create a loose seedbed. Then, test your soil and amend it as needed to ensure the proper pH and nutrient levels. Then, choose the right turnip variety. Select a variety that is well-suited to your climate and your deer's feeding habits.
Next, calculate the appropriate planting rate. Follow the seed manufacturer's instructions for planting depth and spacing. A general rule of thumb is to plant about 5-7 pounds of seed per acre. Don't forget to plant at the right time. Aim to plant 60-90 days before the first expected frost in your area. Consider the local weather forecast and local intel when determining the exact planting date. Also, control weeds. Weeds can compete with turnips for water and nutrients. Use pre-emergent herbicides or hand-weed your plot as needed. And finally, monitor your plot. Regularly check your plot for signs of deer feeding and adjust your management practices as needed.
Follow these steps, and you'll be well on your way to growing a successful turnip plot that attracts and sustains your deer herd. Remember, a little planning and preparation can make all the difference. Because, let's face it, even the best hunting strategy is only as good as your ability to execute it. And your ability to execute it relies on your preparation. So prepare, plant, and prepare again. Good luck, and happy hunting!
Generally, plant turnips 60-90 days before the first expected frost. This allows ample time for both the leafy tops and the nutritious roots to develop, providing a substantial food source for deer during the colder months.
While turnips are typically planted in late summer or early fall, planting in the spring is also an option in some regions. Spring planting allows for an earlier food source. However, growth may be affected by the heat, so choose a variety that suits your climate and always make sure the soil is prepared before planting.
Plant turnip seeds relatively shallowly, about ¼ to ½ inch deep. This ensures that they have good contact with the soil and can germinate properly. Remember to lightly cover the seeds with soil after planting and water them well to keep them moist.