skiftcky

This year I planted some purple top turnip that came up but a lot of it died off. I am thinking it's because my property is mostly on a north facing slope and a lot of tree canopy on it (don't want to cut anymore trees). Is there a food that will keep the deer in the area year round that tolerates shaded areas? I was told clover might work but would like some expert opinions.

rockport

Clover,winter wheat,rye,and oats

Did you possibly plants to many turnips and they starved each other out?

Hatfield Hunter

I agree with the clover and winter wheat from experience

super_hunt54

Rape seed also does very well in Tennessee. And you can't go wrong with clover either! Rock also made a really good point as well. You MAY have over planted as turnips do have a tendency to really suck up the resources. I learned that lesson the hard way and I think Rock did too

BrushyPines

As long as the plot gets at least 6 hours of sun a day, the clover will do fine! Oats are a good mix with the clover as well.

rockport

Of course.

As far as the winter wheat types the rye is the easiest to grow. That stuff will damn near grow in your pocket.

If you are going to do mixes its best to separate it the first year so you know what worked and what didn't

skiftcky

Thanks for the input... also, no didn't plant to close, you can see the areas in my plot that get more sunlight are much nicer and bigger plants than the heavily shaded areas.

rockport

Go back to turnips in those areas and clover for the rest.

Mojotex

Tough to get and maintain a vigorous food plot in shaded areas. One key is a good pH. Most shaded areas will have a high acidity from decayed leaves, pine straw, etc. Soil test or if not, cover the area with ag lime at a rate of about 1 ton/acre rate. Should help.

Rob in VT

Clover and oats work well. Oats will grow on pavement so shade isn't a problem