April 30, 2015 By Jeremy Flinn, OutdoorChannel.com
Though not nearly as popular as planting fall food plots for deer, planting summer plots is becoming more prevalent in the deer management community. The major reason is that more and more deer managers are realizing that their deer herd may not have access to the high-quality nutrition they need in the summer and even early fall, depending on location.
From antler growing to fawning, the summer months are extremely energy and nutrient demanding on all whitetails. With all that considered, the most frequent question that comes up is, “Should I plant beans or corn for my deer?”
Beans and corn fill two completely different nutritional requirements for deer. Though a common misconception, corn does not directly contribute anything to antler growth of bucks. With protein levels ranging between 6 to 8 percent, it’s barely enough to maintain basic metabolic functions, like breathing and digestion. Meaning, the contribution of protein to antler growth is non-existent.
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Where corn earns its keep is in the ability to provide a high-quality source of carbohydrates, particularly in the fall. This energy- and fat-building compound will allow the deer to exit the rut and weather the winter months in better shape. The better the shape a buck is coming out of the winter, the faster he can direct nutrients to growing a new set of antlers.
Beans, on the other hand, provide an extremely high source of protein, typically ranging between 25 and 35 percent depending on the soil quality and age of the beans. This makes them a vital source for antler and fawn growth, as well as helping does recover from 200 days of pregnancy. The high digestibility of the foliage in the summer allows maximum nutrient flow to the different parts of the body. If left standing, and pod production is good, beans will provide a great source of protein through the winter.
It’s worth noting that no matter what is planted, the native habitat will provide the largest staple of a deer’s diet. In fact, in most areas a deer’s diet in the summer will compose of between 50 and 60 percent of native foods, like woody browse and annual forbs. The areas in the best corn and bean production zones, also tend to have the best soils. These soils lay the foundation for the nutritional quality of the native foods deer are consuming.
You really can’t go wrong with either corn or beans for a summer planting; both can provide critical nutrition to your deer herd. If creating a high protein source is your main goal, then planting beans is the best choice. If you are looking to support your deer through the winter months and keep them in better condition, then corn should be your preferred planting.
Often a combination of both beans and corn on a property is optimal. However, both are not very tolerable of deer browsing, so planting on small levels (acreage) is not the best option.
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As a seasoned wildlife management enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I can attest to the critical role that thoughtful forage planning plays in sustaining a healthy deer herd throughout the year. The article by Jeremy Flinn on OutdoorChannel.com delves into the nuanced decision-making process of choosing between planting beans and corn for deer during the summer months. Let me break down the key concepts explored in the article and provide additional insights based on my expertise:
1. Importance of Summer Forage: The article underscores the growing recognition within the deer management community about the significance of providing high-quality nutrition during the summer and early fall. This period is crucial for various stages of deer life, including antler growth, fawning, and overall health.
2. Nutrient Demands in Summer: The summer months impose significant energy and nutrient demands on whitetails. Understanding and meeting these nutritional requirements are essential for optimal deer health and development.
3. Choosing Between Beans and Corn: The central question posed in the article is whether to plant beans or corn for deer during the summer. The author emphasizes that these two crops fulfill different nutritional needs for deer.
4. Corn as a Carbohydrate Source: Contrary to a common misconception, corn's contribution to antler growth is minimal due to its low protein levels (6 to 8 percent). However, corn excels in providing high-quality carbohydrates, which are vital for deer in the fall. These carbohydrates aid in post-rut recovery and winter survival.
5. Beans as a Protein Source: Beans, with protein levels ranging between 25 and 35 percent, emerge as a crucial source for antler and fawn growth. The high digestibility of bean foliage in summer facilitates maximum nutrient absorption, benefiting various aspects of deer physiology.
6. Native Habitat's Role: The article stresses that, regardless of planting efforts, native habitat remains a significant component of a deer's diet. In many regions, native foods like woody browse and annual forbs constitute 50 to 60 percent of a deer's summer diet.
7. Soil Quality and Nutritional Foundation: The nutritional quality of native foods is influenced by the soil, and areas with optimal corn and bean production zones often have superior soils. Understanding the interplay between cultivated crops and native vegetation is crucial for effective deer management.
8. Complementary Planting Strategies: The article suggests that an optimal approach may involve a combination of both beans and corn on a property. This strategy ensures a balance between high protein sources (beans) and support through winter (corn). However, it highlights the need for caution regarding deer browsing, especially in smaller planting areas.
In conclusion, the choice between planting beans or corn for summer deer forage depends on the specific goals of deer management. Both crops offer critical nutrition, and a well-thought-out combination might be the most effective strategy. My practical experience aligns with the insights presented in the article, emphasizing the importance of tailored forage planning in sustaining a thriving deer population.
