Small burnet (Sanguisorba minor) is a hardy, perennial herb that is both nutritious and beneficial for wildlife food plots. Its leaves, flowers, and seeds provide a high-quality forage for various wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and birds. Known for its resilience in tough growing conditions, small burnet can be used in wildlife food plots to provide year-round nutrition and habitat diversity.

Benefits for Wildlife

✔ Highly nutritious forage – Small burnet is rich in proteins and minerals, making it ideal for deer, rabbits, and other grazing animals.
✔ Attracts a variety of wildlife – It is especially attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a great companion plant for other food sources.
✔ Multi-season forage – The plant produces edible leaves and seeds throughout the year, providing a continuous food supply for wildlife.
✔ Good for habitat – It can also serve as a cover plant, offering wildlife protection and shelter.

Planting Guidelines for Small Burnet

• Planting Times:

  • Best planted in early spring (March to April) or fall (September to October) for optimal growth and establishment.

• Seeding Depth:

  • 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep, as it is a small seed that requires shallow planting for proper germination.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 3–5 lbs per acre for uniform establishment.
  • Broadcast: 5–7 lbs per acre, ensuring the seed is lightly covered with soil for better germination.

• Days to Maturity:

  • Small burnet typically reaches maturity in 60–90 days from planting, depending on environmental conditions.

• Height at Maturity:

  • Can grow up to 1–2 feet tall, depending on soil conditions and maintenance.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate to high – Small burnet is relatively drought-tolerant once established, though it thrives best with consistent moisture.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Low to moderate – Prefers well-drained soil and does not perform well in waterlogged conditions.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Low to moderate – Requires full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate partial shade under certain conditions.

Fertilization Guidelines for Small Burnet

• Soil pH:

  • Best grown in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

• Fertilizer Needs:

  • Small burnet typically requires moderate fertilization to thrive. Applying 10–20 lbs of nitrogen per acreannually will encourage healthy growth.
  • Phosphorus and potassium levels should be maintained based on soil tests, as these nutrients support root and flower development.

Timing:

• Apply fertilizers in the spring before planting or during early growth stages to support establishment.

Herbicide Use for Small Burnet

• Weed Control:

  • While small burnet is relatively drought-tolerant and hardy, it may require weed control during establishment.
  • Pre-emergence herbicides like Pendimethalin or Trifluralin can be used before planting to prevent weed growth.