Forage collards are an excellent choice for wildlife food plots, particularly for attracting and nourishing deer. These hardy, nutrient-rich plants are a member of the brassica family and offer numerous benefits for both deer and land managers. Forage collards will remain vegetative throughout the summer, it will not bolt.

Key Benefits of Forage Collards for Deer

1. High Nutritional Value:

   • Forage collards are packed with protein (up to 20-25%) and essential nutrients, making them highly attractive and beneficial for deer, especially during the fall and winter months.

   • They provide a reliable food source when other natural forage is scarce.

2. Cold Tolerance:

   • Forage collards are extremely cold-hardy and can withstand frost and freezing temperatures. In fact, frost can improve their palatability by converting starches into sugars, making them even more appealing to deer.

3. Long Growing Season:

   • These plants have a long growing window, providing forage from early summer through winter. They remain green and nutritious even after many other plants have died back.

4. Low Maintenance:

   • Forage collards are relatively easy to establish and maintain. They grow well in a variety of soil types and require minimal management once established.

5. High Yield:

   • Forage collards produce abundant leafy greens, offering a high volume of forage per acre. This makes them a cost-effective option for food plots.

How to Use Forage Collards in Deer Food Plots

1. Planting Time:

   • Plant forage collards in early summer or early fall to ensure they are well-established before winter.

2. Soil Preparation:

   • Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Forage collards prefer a pH of 6.0-7.0.

   • Till the soil and incorporate lime or fertilizer as needed to optimize growth.

3. Seeding Rates:

   • Broadcast or drill seeds at a rate of 5-8 pounds per acre. For smaller plots, adjust accordingly.

4. Weed Control:

   • Keep the area free of weeds, especially during the establishment phase, to reduce competition for nutrients and sunlight.

5. Deer Attraction:

   • Forage collards are highly attractive to deer, but it may take some time for deer to recognize them as a food source. Once they do, they will heavily browse the plants.

Challenges of Forage Collards

• Initial Acceptance: Deer may take time to start feeding on forage collards, especially if they are not familiar with the plant.

• Overbrowsing: In areas with high deer density, forage collards can be overbrowsed, reducing their effectiveness. Consider planting larger plots or mixing with other crops to mitigate this.

Why Forage Collards Stand Out

Forage collards are a versatile and reliable option for deer food plots. Their cold tolerance, high nutritional value, and long growing season make them a standout choice for supporting deer health and attracting them to your property. Whether you’re managing for hunting or conservation, forage collards are a valuable addition to any wildlife food plot program.