I agree - for a small plot - wintergreens is a great choice since the deer should leave them alone until fall. But - like you say - if there isn't much other green food around - they'll hit it anyhow.

I've planted wintergreens and other brassicas before - and when you see that tall skinny stalk - they are competing with each other too much or need more light - and maybe both.

Looks like you'll have to keepoverseeding the small plot if you hope to have some greenery come hunting season. Maybe try Rye it can work well - because it will keep growing after frosts - and will do betteryet as the leaves fall- and let in more light