Wildlife Buffet™
Wildlife Buffet Planting Guide
Test soil pH and follow lime and fertilizer recommendations each season. If you do this each year, you may end up saving money on fertilizer.
Your soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.0 (soil needs to be at this pH level to allow plants to uptake nutrients). If you don’t have a soil test and know you pH is low, you will probably need to add a couple of tons of lime per acre. You will also need about 80-100 units of N and 70 units of P and K each per acre. Apply N fertilizer on dry soil, but make sure it is tilled in or rained in within 2 days of application (nitrogen can volatilize or gas off into the atmosphere).
Planting should occur after your last spring frost when soil temperatures are above 62 degrees at a one inch depth. For best results, plant prior to June 15th. Either till to eliminate weeds and prepare a final seed bed or use non-selective herbicides prior to no-till planting. Do not use Roundup over the top and always follow all pesticide labels.
Most plants do not like water-logged soil, so plant in well-drained soil. It is best to prepare a smooth, firm seed bed without deep pockets and clods. Plant one full bag per acre. You can either broadcast or drill (3/4 to 1 inch depth). If broadcasting, cover lightly with up to 1 inch of soil and firm up with a drag or roller. Wide row plantings (over 30 inches) are not recommended.
Plant in moist soil to obtain fast seed emergence. Fast emergence and canopy closure is your best defense against weeds. But, don’t work your plot when it is wet, or muddy, this can cause compaction. Avoid planting in hot, dry weather.
Deer will be highly attracted to this plot. You should consider using deer deterrents such as Milorganite or an electric fence for the first 6-8 weeks after planting.
Place an exclusion cage to gauge animal pressure to help determine if more acreage will be needed the following year.
This is an annual product and should be planted on a yearly basis. Always store seed in a cool, dry place prior to planting.