North Florida summers are hot and wet. This makes food plots tricky to grow. But it is not impossible. With the right seeds, you can have a good food plot. This helps deer, turkey, and other animals find food. It also helps hunters have better success.
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What is a Throw N Grow Food Plot?
A Throw N Grow food plot is easy to plant. You just throw the seed on the ground. No need to till or prepare the soil much. These seeds grow fast and give good food for animals. They work well in warm weather like summer.
Why Plant Food Plots in North Florida Summer?
- Natural food is less in summer because of heat.
- Food plots give extra nutrition to wildlife.
- They attract deer and turkey to your land.
- Food plots help animals stay healthy.
- Good food plots make hunting easier and more fun.
Best Seeds for Throw N Grow Food Plots in North Florida Summer
Choosing the right seed is very important. Not all seeds grow well in hot, sandy, or wet soils. Here are the best seeds for North Florida summer food plots:
1. Legumes
Legumes are plants like clover, beans, and peas. They are good for summer because:
- They grow fast.
- Animals love to eat them.
- They add nitrogen to the soil, which helps other plants grow.
Some good legumes for North Florida are:
| Seed | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| White Clover | Low growing, spreads well. | Tolerates heat and drought. |
| Arrowleaf Clover | Quick to grow in warm weather. | Good for sandy soils. |
| Winter Peas | Sweet and tasty for deer. | Grows fast and fixes nitrogen. |
| Sunn Hemp | Very fast grower, good summer legume. | Helps improve soil health. |
2. Brassicas
Brassicas include plants like turnips, radishes, and kale. They grow well in summer and fall. Deer love to eat their leaves and roots. They are very nutritious and help deer grow strong.
3. Cereal Grains
Cereal grains such as oats and sorghum can be planted in summer. They provide seeds and leaves for animals. They also help keep the soil covered and healthy.
How to Plant Throw N Grow Food Plots in North Florida Summer
Here are simple steps to plant a food plot:
- Choose the right spot. Look for flat or gentle slopes. Avoid very rocky or shaded places.
- Clear the area. Remove big weeds or grass. You do not need to till the soil deep.
- Spread the seed. Just throw the seed evenly on the ground.
- Press the seed. Walk over the area or use a roller to press seeds into the soil.
- Water if possible. If you can, give some water to help seeds start growing.
Tips for Success in North Florida Summers
- Plant after the last frost. Usually, this is in late April or May.
- Use seeds made for warm weather. They grow better in heat.
- Check soil moisture. Water your plot if dry for a few weeks.
- Control weeds. Remove big weeds early to help your plants grow.
- Use a mix of seeds. Different plants grow at different times and help each other.
Why Legumes Are Best for North Florida Summer
Legumes are the top choice for summer food plots in North Florida. Here is why:
- They grow well in sandy and warm soils.
- They provide protein and energy to deer and turkey.
- They improve soil by adding nitrogen.
- They grow fast and regrow after being eaten.
Because of these reasons, many hunters and wildlife lovers choose legumes for their throw and grow plots.
Example Food Plot Mix for North Florida Summer
To get the best results, try mixing these seeds:
| Seed | Percentage by Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White Clover | 50% | Good ground cover and food source. |
| Arrowleaf Clover | 30% | Fast summer growth. |
| Sunn Hemp | 20% | Helps soil and grows quickly. |
This mix grows well with little work. It feeds deer and turkey all summer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting too early or too late. Timing matters for best growth.
- Using wrong seeds. Choose seeds fit for North Florida summer heat.
- Ignoring soil condition. Sandy soil needs good seed choice.
- Not watering enough. Seeds need moisture to sprout.
- Letting weeds take over. Weeds can stop your food plot from growing.
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How to Keep Your Food Plot Growing Strong
Once your food plot grows, follow these tips:
- Check plants weekly for weeds or pests.
- Water during dry times if possible.
- Do not let deer eat all plants at once. They need time to regrow.
- Add fertilizer if soil is poor. But legumes often don’t need much fertilizer.
- Plant new seed each year to keep food fresh.
Conclusion
Throw N Grow food plots work well in North Florida summers. Legumes like clover and sunn hemp are the best seeds. They grow fast and help soil. They feed deer and turkey during hot months. Plant your food plot after frost and watch it grow. Take care of it and enjoy good wildlife activity on your land. A simple food plot can make a big difference.
Good food plots take little work but give much reward. Try these tips for your next summer food plot. You will see the animals come back for more.