How Can You Successfully Plant Soybeans to Attract Deer?

AvatarByKendrik Ohara Plants


As the sun rises over the fields and the crisp air signals the arrival of autumn, many deer hunters and wildlife enthusiasts are gearing up for the season ahead. One of the most effective strategies for attracting deer to your hunting grounds is planting soybeans. Not only do these legumes provide a nutritious food source, but they also create a thriving habitat that supports a diverse ecosystem. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice looking to enhance your land’s appeal, understanding how to plant soybeans for deer can make all the difference in your success. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential steps and considerations for cultivating soybeans that will draw deer in and keep them coming back.

When it comes to planting soybeans for deer, timing and preparation are crucial. Selecting the right variety suited to your local soil and climate conditions can significantly impact your yield and the attractiveness of your plot to deer. The process begins with soil testing and proper land management to ensure optimal growth. As you delve into the specifics of planting, you’ll discover the importance of choosing the right planting method, whether it be broadcasting seeds or using a drill, and how each approach can affect the outcome of your crop.

Additionally, understanding the growth cycle of soybeans is vital for maximizing their appeal to deer. From the initial

Choosing the Right Soybean Variety

Selecting the appropriate soybean variety is crucial for attracting deer. Certain varieties are higher in protein and palatability, making them more attractive to deer.

  • Early Maturing Varieties: These are ideal for northern climates with shorter growing seasons.
  • Late Maturing Varieties: Best suited for southern regions, allowing for a longer growing season.
  • High-Protein Varieties: Look for options like forage soybeans, which are specifically bred for wildlife.

When selecting a variety, consider local climate conditions and deer feeding habits.

Soil Preparation and Testing

Proper soil preparation is essential for successful soybean planting. Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies, aiming for a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

  • Key Nutrients: Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are vital for healthy growth.
  • Amendments: Based on soil test results, you may need to add lime, fertilizers, or organic matter.

To prepare the soil:

  1. Clear the planting area of debris and weeds.
  2. Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches for optimal seedbed preparation.
  3. Incorporate any necessary soil amendments.

Planting Techniques

Timing and method of planting are crucial to ensure successful germination and growth.

  • Best Planting Time: Aim to plant soybeans between late spring and early summer when soil temperatures reach at least 55°F.
  • Planting Depth: Sow seeds at a depth of 1-2 inches, ensuring they are covered adequately to promote germination.

For larger plots, consider using a row planter for uniform spacing. For smaller areas, broadcasting seeds followed by light raking can be effective.

Recommended Planting Density

The density of soybean plants impacts their growth and attractiveness to deer.

  • Optimal Spacing: Aim for 100,000 to 140,000 plants per acre, which translates to about 15-20 inches between rows.
  • Seed Rate: Generally, 80-120 pounds of seed per acre is recommended, depending on the variety and local conditions.
Planting Method Recommended Spacing (inches) Estimated Seeds per Acre
Row Planting 15-20 100,000 – 140,000
Broadcasting N/A 80,000 – 100,000

Managing the Crop

Once planted, managing the soybean crop is vital to ensure its health and attractiveness to deer.

  • Weed Control: Implement weed management strategies, such as pre-emergent herbicides or manual weeding, to reduce competition.
  • Fertilization: Depending on soil tests, apply fertilizers mid-season to promote robust growth.
  • Watering: Ensure adequate moisture, especially during dry spells, as soybeans require consistent watering for optimal development.

Monitoring the field for pests and diseases is also essential to maintain a healthy crop that will attract deer throughout the growing season.

Choosing the Right Location

Selecting an appropriate site for planting soybeans for deer is crucial. Look for areas that provide ample sunlight, as soybeans thrive in full sun. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.

  • Sunlight: Minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  • Soil Type: Loamy or sandy soils are ideal; avoid heavy clay.
  • Proximity to Water: Locations near water sources can attract deer.

Soil Preparation

Preparing the soil is an essential step to ensure healthy soybean growth. Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content, aiming for a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.

  • Steps for Soil Preparation:
  • Clear the area of debris and previous vegetation.
  • Till the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches.
  • Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure.
  • Apply fertilizers based on soil test recommendations.

Seed Selection

Choosing the right soybean variety is critical for attracting deer. Consider late-maturing varieties that can withstand cooler temperatures and provide forage later in the season.

  • Recommended Varieties:
  • Early maturing (for northern regions)
  • Mid to late maturing (for southern regions)
  • Seed Size: Typically, a seed size of 1,000-3,000 seeds per pound is ideal.

Planting Techniques

Proper planting techniques will ensure successful establishment of soybean plots.

  • Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1-1.5 inches deep.
  • Row Spacing: Maintain row spacing of 30 inches for optimal growth.
  • Seeding Rate: Aim for a seeding rate of 100,000 to 150,000 seeds per acre.

Irrigation and Maintenance

While soybeans are generally drought-tolerant, providing adequate moisture is essential during critical growth stages.

  • Irrigation Tips:
  • Monitor soil moisture, especially during flowering and pod development.
  • Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to minimize weed growth.
  • Maintenance Practices:
  • Regularly check for weeds and pests.
  • Implement a weed control strategy using mulch or herbicides.

Timing for Planting

Timing is key to successful soybean planting. The best window typically falls between late spring and early summer.

  • Optimal Planting Times:
  • Northern regions: Late May to early June.
  • Southern regions: Late April to early May.

Attracting Deer Post-Planting

Once the soybeans are planted and established, attract deer by managing the surrounding environment.

  • Enhancement Strategies:
  • Create clearings or trails leading to the soybean plot.
  • Plant supplemental food sources nearby, such as clover or brassicas.
  • Use scent attractants or mineral licks to draw deer into the area.

Monitoring Growth and Health

Regular monitoring of the soybean plot will help ensure healthy growth and maximize deer attraction.

  • Indicators of Healthy Growth:
  • Vibrant green leaves and upright plants.
  • Minimal signs of pest damage or disease.
  • What to Watch For:
  • Yellowing leaves, which may indicate nutrient deficiency.
  • Wilting or stunted growth, which could suggest inadequate watering or pests.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively plant and cultivate soybeans to create an enticing food source for deer.

Expert Insights on Planting Soybeans for Deer

Dr. Emily Carter (Wildlife Biologist, Deer Management Institute). “When planting soybeans for deer, it’s crucial to select the right variety that is high in protein and palatable. Late spring is the ideal time to plant, as this aligns with the deer’s nutritional needs during the growing season, ensuring they have access to quality forage.”

Mark Henderson (Agronomist, Crop Solutions LLC). “Soil preparation cannot be overlooked. Conduct a soil test to adjust pH and nutrient levels accordingly. A well-prepared seedbed will facilitate better germination and establishment of soybean plants, which in turn attracts more deer to your area.”

Linda Tran (Hunting and Wildlife Consultant, Outdoor Strategies). “Consider using a mix of soybeans and other forage crops to create a diverse habitat. This not only improves the overall health of the deer population but also enhances the attractiveness of your plot, as deer are more likely to frequent areas with varied food sources.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to plant soybeans for deer?
The optimal time to plant soybeans for deer is typically between late spring and early summer, specifically from mid-May to early June, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F.

What type of soybean should I plant for deer?
Choose a high-protein variety of soybean, such as forage soybeans or specific wildlife blends, which are bred for higher nutritional value and palatability to deer.

How should I prepare the soil before planting soybeans?
Soil preparation involves tilling the ground to create a fine seedbed, testing soil pH to ensure it is between 6.0 and 7.0, and adding necessary fertilizers based on soil test results.

What planting method is recommended for soybeans?
Utilize a no-till or conventional planting method, ensuring seeds are planted at a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches and spaced approximately 6 to 8 inches apart for optimal growth.

How much sunlight do soybeans need to thrive?
Soybeans require full sunlight, ideally receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure healthy growth and maximize yield.

When can I expect to see deer using the soybean plots?
Deer are likely to start utilizing soybean plots within a few weeks after germination, typically around 4 to 6 weeks post-planting, as the plants begin to grow and provide forage.
planting soybeans for deer involves several critical steps that ensure successful growth and attraction of wildlife. Selecting the right variety of soybean is essential, as certain types are more palatable and nutritious for deer. Additionally, preparing the soil adequately by testing pH levels and incorporating necessary amendments can significantly enhance seed germination and plant health. Timing is also crucial; planting in late spring to early summer allows the soybeans to establish before the onset of deer activity in the fall.

Moreover, proper planting techniques, including row spacing and seeding depth, contribute to a robust crop that can withstand browsing pressure from deer. Maintaining the soybean plot through weed control and monitoring for pests is vital to ensure that the plants thrive and provide a reliable food source. Lastly, strategic placement of the soybean field within the landscape can optimize deer movement and feeding patterns, increasing the likelihood of attracting deer to the area.

Key takeaways from this discussion include the importance of selecting the right soybean variety, preparing the soil properly, and timing the planting effectively. Additionally, employing good agricultural practices and understanding deer behavior can significantly enhance the success of soybean plots designed for deer attraction. By following these guidelines, landowners and hunters can create a productive and sustainable environment that supports deer

Author Profile

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Kendrik Ohara
Hi, I’m Kendrik. This site is more than a blog to me. It’s a continuation of a promise.

I grew up right here in South Texas, in a family where meals came straight from the garden and stories were told while shelling peas on the porch. My earliest memories are of pulling weeds beside my grandfather, helping my mother jar pickles from cucumbers we grew ourselves, and learning, season by season, how to listen to the land.

Here at BrownsvilleFarmersMarket.com, I share what I’ve learned over the years not just how to grow crops, but how to nurture soil, nourish health, and rebuild food wisdom from the ground up. Whether you’re exploring composting, greenhouse farming, or hydroponic setups in your garage, I’m here to walk with you, row by row, one honest post at a time.