Spring Food Plots
As spring approaches, hunters and land managers start planning their food plots in order to attract and nourish wildlife. A well-prepared food plot can provide essential nutrition for deer, turkey, and other game species while also improving habitat quality. One of the best tools for the job is the GroundHog Max ATV Disc Plow—a compact, effective, and budget-friendly solution for breaking ground and preparing seedbeds.
Why Choose the Groundhog Max?
The GroundHog Max is a disc plow designed to attach to an ATV, UTV, or small tractor. Unlike traditional disc harrows, the GroundHog Max is lightweight, easy to transport, and highly effective in small to medium-sized food plots. Here’s why it’s a great choice:
*No Heavy Equipment Required – Perfect for DIY food plotters who don’t have access to tractors.
*Compact & Maneuverable – Works well in tight or hard-to-reach areas.
*Cuts Deep & Fast – Uses the weight of your ATV/UTV to create aggressive soil penetration.
*Efficient & Cost-Effective – Saves fuel, time, and money compared to larger implements.
Step 1: Select the Right Location
The location of your food plot is just as important as the equipment you use. When choosing a site, consider:
*Proximity to Cover – Deer and turkey prefer plots near thick cover for security.
*Sunlight Exposure – Most food plot crops need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
*Soil Moisture & Drainage – Avoid low-lying areas prone to standing water.
Once you've found the right spot, mark the boundaries of your plot with flags or stakes.
Step 2: Conduct a Soil Test
Before breaking ground, it's crucial to understand your soil quality. A soil test will reveal pH levels and nutrient deficiencies, helping you determine if lime or fertilizer is needed.
How to test your soil:
*Collect samples from multiple areas of your plot (4-6 inches deep).
*Send the samples to a local extension office or use a soil test kit.
*Apply lime if the pH is below 6.0 (most food plot crops prefer a 6.0-7.0 pH).
*Add fertilizer based on the crop’s nutrient needs (typically NPK 13-13-13 for general food plots).
Step 3: Clear the Area
To maximize seed-to-soil contact, start by clearing grass, weeds, and debris.
*Mow or Spray – Use a mower or herbicide (like glyphosate) 2-3 weeks before disking.
*Burn (Optional) – If legal in your area, a controlled burn can quickly remove excess thatch.
*Remove Rocks & Stumps – Prevent damage to your ATV/UTV and the GroundHog Max
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Step 4: Disk with the GroundHog Max
Now it's time to break ground! The GroundHog Max is designed to be aggressive and requires downward pressure from your ATV/UTV. Be sure to make multiple passes with the Max and it’s best to disk right before a rain if possible. When the ground is soft and well-aerated, your seedbed is ready!
Step 5: Seeding & Fertilizing
Now that your soil is tilled and loose, it's time to plant!
Choose Your Seed – Common spring food plot options include:
Clover & Chicory – Great for deer and turkey.
Soybeans & Cowpeas – High-protein summer forage.
Millet & Sunflowers – Attract turkeys, doves, and other birds.
Spread Seeds Evenly – Use a broadcast spreader for even coverage.
Cover the Seeds – Lightly cover the seeds with a drag harrow or a cultipacker to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Water if Necessary – If rain isn’t in the forecast, a light watering helps with germination.
Step 6: Maintenance & Growth
Once your food plot is planted, it’s important to monitor growth and maintain it throughout the season.
*Mow Clover & Perennials – Mowing keeps weeds down and promotes new growth.
*Spot-Spray Weeds – Use selective herbicides to prevent weeds from taking over.
*Monitor Rainfall – Drought stress can reduce food plot success, so plan accordingly.
*Protect from Overbrowsing – If deer pressure is high, consider using exclusion cages to track forage growth.
Watch it Grow!
The GroundHog Max is an excellent tool for DIY land managers looking to create effective and affordable food plots. With the right preparation, technique, and maintenance, you can establish lush, high-quality plots that will attract and sustain wildlife all season long. Get yours today!
