What To Know
- Planting a soybean food plot is a rewarding endeavor that can attract an abundance of game and non-game species.
- If you plan to use herbicides to control weeds, choose a soybean variety that is resistant to the herbicides you intend to apply.
- By following the techniques outlined in this guide, you can establish a thriving soybean food plot that will attract an abundance of game and non-game species for years to come.
Are you an avid hunter or wildlife enthusiast seeking to enhance your hunting grounds or provide sustenance for wildlife? Planting a soybean food plot is a rewarding endeavor that can attract an abundance of game and non-game species. This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques necessary to establish a thriving soybean food plot, ensuring a successful and bountiful harvest.
Site Selection: Choosing the Perfect Location
The foundation of a successful soybean food plot lies in selecting the optimal site. Consider the following factors:
- Sunlight: Soybeans require ample sunlight to thrive. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Soil: Soybeans prefer well-drained, fertile soils with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of your chosen site.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the food plot is easily accessible for planting, maintenance, and harvesting.
Soil Preparation: Creating a Fertile Foundation
Proper soil preparation is crucial for soybean growth and yield. Follow these steps:
- Tillage: Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches to loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris.
- Lime Amendment: If the soil pH is below 6.0, apply lime to raise it to the desired range.
- Fertilization: Conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutrient requirements of your soil. Apply fertilizer accordingly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Seed Selection: Choosing the Right Variety
Selecting the appropriate soybean variety is essential for maximizing yield and attracting wildlife. Consider the following factors:
- Maturity Group: Choose a soybean variety that matures within the specific growing season of your region.
- Wildlife Preference: Different wildlife species have varying preferences for soybean varieties. Research the species you wish to attract and select a variety that meets their needs.
- Herbicide Resistance: If you plan to use herbicides to control weeds, choose a soybean variety that is resistant to the herbicides you intend to apply.
Planting: Sowing the Seeds of Success
Once the soil is prepared and the seeds are selected, it’s time to plant the soybeans. Follow these guidelines:
- Planting Time: Plant soybeans when the soil temperature reaches 60°F at a depth of 2 inches.
- Planting Depth: Plant seeds 1-1.5 inches deep in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart.
- Planting Rate: Refer to the seed label for the recommended planting rate based on the variety and row spacing.
Weed Control: Maintaining a Pristine Plot
Weeds can compete with soybeans for nutrients, water, and sunlight, reducing yield and attractiveness to wildlife. Implement the following weed control strategies:
- Mechanical Weed Control: Use a hoe or cultivator to remove weeds regularly.
- Chemical Weed Control: Apply herbicides according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Consider using selective herbicides that target specific weed species without harming soybeans.
Fertilizer Application: Providing Essential Nutrients
Soybeans require regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Follow these guidelines:
- Mid-Season Fertilization: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer 3-4 weeks after emergence.
- Late-Season Fertilization: Apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer 6-8 weeks after emergence.
Harvesting: Reaping the Rewards
When the soybeans reach maturity, it’s time to harvest the fruits of your labor.
- Harvest Time: Soybeans are ready to harvest when the leaves turn yellow and the pods are brown and dry.
- Harvest Method: Use a combine or sickle mower to harvest the soybeans.
Final Note: A Bountiful Harvest for You and Wildlife
Planting a soybean food plot is an enriching experience that not only benefits wildlife but also provides a sense of accomplishment. By following the techniques outlined in this guide, you can establish a thriving soybean food plot that will attract an abundance of game and non-game species for years to come.
Top Questions Asked
- Q: What is the ideal soil pH for soybeans?
- A: Soybeans prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
- Q: How often should I fertilize soybeans?
- A: Fertilize soybeans twice during the growing season: once mid-season with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer and once late-season with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer.
- Q: What is the best way to control weeds in a soybean food plot?
- A: Implement a combination of mechanical weed control (hoeing or cultivating) and chemical weed control (using selective herbicides).
- Q: How can I attract wildlife to my soybean food plot?
- A: Choose a soybean variety that is preferred by the wildlife species you wish to attract.
- Q: Can I plant soybeans in the fall?
- A: Yes, soybeans can be planted in the fall in areas with mild winters.
