RE: What is the best thing to plant in a food plot
You basically need some heartier species to grow for your needs.
Contact some of the food-plot seed producting companies, such as Bio-Logic. They would have the best suggestions.
You'll probably need to supply them with some basic information, such as annual precipitation, first/last frost dates, annual climate, and probably soil characteristics. If you're unsure about your soil, find an AG extension office within your area (check at your town hall or local University/college). Basic soil tests can be run pretty inexpensively, usually between $5-20.
Other than that, I'm thinking you may want to plant something like a winter wheat/chufa/clover mix, but I'm not an expert. Also, be aware that the first time you plant a food plot the yield and growth rates are usually 25% below established plots.
You could also contact your local Agway/nursery for some seed mixtures that would grow well in your area.
Hope this helps,
S&R