Native Plants and Wildlife
For as the long as the two have coexisted, our wildlife used and thrived on native plants. Time has brought many changes for our wildlife; some species have adapted to the new habitats that have been created while others have not fared as well. Using native plants in a food plot for wildlife can create habitat for everything from game birds and mammals to non-game animals.
Bobwhite Quail • Native grasses and forbs can make ideal quail habitat. Use the Wildlife Chuckwagon as the base of a diverse quail mix to create foraging opportunities. Complement it with the Companion Grass mix to add additional structure. For quail, some bare ground is ideal because it provides easy travel between plants and plenty of dusting areas.
Whitetail Deer • Deer like to eat plants that are green and growing. A diverse combination of natives will provide year-round browse. Plant either the Buck Magnet or Harvest Moon Hangout as a food source. Then, use Hide and Sneak on the foodplot border to make the feeding area feel like a safe haven.
Eastern Wild Turkey • Insects and seeds are a major component of turkeys' diets. Wildlife Chuckwagon will produce many different types of seed and attract insects throughout the growing season. Complement this mix with Companion Grass to create better structure. The Harvest Moon Hangout or Buck Magnet can also be a component of turkey habitat. Lastly, use Hide & Sneak to create a refuge.
Pollinators • Populations of many native pollinators are declining dramatically. Pollinators need plants that bloom throughout the growing season. Use the Butterfly and Hummingbird mix on the landscaping page along with Companion Grass mix to create quality pollinator habitat. If planting a costshare pollinator habitat, call for current mix pricing.
Getting Started
Getting rid of existing vegetation and seeds in the soil is usually the most important step to ensure a successful wildflower planting from seed. For more information check out our planting timeline.
Wildflower seeds need to go through a cold, moist period before they will germinate; so plant in winter or see our stratification guide.
New construction sites and steep slopes are considered critical areas. See special instructions for these areas in our critical area treatment.
Visit our guides page for more tips and solutions. |
