What To Know
- Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plant and maintain chicory for deer.
- Mow chicory plants to a height of 4-6 inches after they reach a height of 10-12 inches.
- By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving chicory patch that provides essential forage and supports the health and well-being of deer in your area.
Chicory is a highly nutritious and palatable forage for deer, providing essential nutrients and supporting their overall health. Planting chicory on your property can attract and sustain a healthy deer population. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plant and maintain chicory for deer:
Choosing the Right Location
Chicory thrives in well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has good air circulation. Avoid planting in areas with standing water or poor drainage.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting, prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 12-18 inches. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility and drainage. If necessary, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels and adjust accordingly.
Selecting and Planting Chicory
Choose a variety of chicory that is well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. Some popular varieties for deer include:
- Forage Chicory: A high-yielding variety with a long growing season.
- Common Chicory: A perennial variety with deep taproots that can tolerate drought conditions.
- Witloof Chicory: A forced variety grown for its edible roots.
Sow chicory seeds directly into the prepared soil in the spring or fall. Plant seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart. Water the seeds well after planting.
Watering and Fertilizing
Chicory requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize chicory lightly with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Mowing and Managing
Mow chicory plants to a height of 4-6 inches after they reach a height of 10-12 inches. This will encourage new growth and prevent the plants from becoming too tall and woody. Remove any weeds that compete with chicory for nutrients and water.
Pest and Disease Control
Chicory is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and aphids. Control root rot by ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering. Treat aphid infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Recommendations: Enhancing Your Deer Habitat with Chicory
Planting chicory on your property is a valuable investment in your deer population. By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving chicory patch that provides essential forage and supports the health and well-being of deer in your area.
What People Want to Know
Q: How deep should I plant chicory seeds?
A: Plant seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep.
Q: How often should I water chicory plants?
A: Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: How tall should I mow chicory plants?
A: Mow to a height of 4-6 inches after plants reach 10-12 inches.
Q: What is the best time to plant chicory?
A: Plant in the spring or fall.
Q: What is the best soil pH for chicory?
A: 6.0-7.0.
Q: Can I plant chicory in the shade?
A: Chicory prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: How long does it take for chicory to grow?
A: Chicory germinates in 7-10 days and reaches maturity in 60-90 days.
Q: Can deer eat chicory?
A: Yes, chicory is a highly nutritious and palatable forage for deer.
Q: What type of chicory is best for deer?
A: Forage chicory is a high-yielding variety well-suited for deer.
