Written by Sharvan Kumar
Unlike livestock that graze on grasses and fibrous plants, deer are highly selective and prefer to eat the best parts of the most nutritious plants.
While hunters often focus on corn, beans, and clover, deer consume a wide variety of plants. In fact, over 400 plant species are found in the Southeast alone that deer regularly consume.
While corn and soybeans dominate the conversation, crops like alfalfa, canola, and milo (grain sorghum) can attract deer as well.
While popular food plot choices like turnips, clover, and soybeans are well-known, alternative plants such as Alyce clover, beets, buckwheat, and cereal rye can also provide excellent nutrition for deer and are often overlooked.
While acorns are a favorite food for whitetails, chestnutsand hickory nuts can be just as attractive to deer, especially during years with acorn crop failures.
Deer enjoy a wide range of soft fruits, including apples, persimmons, blackberries, and grapes. Other fruits such as pawpaws, pears, and plums can also be attractive food sources during certain times of the year.
In fall, winter, and early spring, deer rely heavily on woody plants like dogwood, hemlock, greenbriar, and various shrubs and trees.
From East West Hunt