Additional Information
Woods to Plots
These are some of the hardest food plots to create, thus take the most investment. Often for large clearing operations a traditional clearing company will be needed. If the time and location are right, the cost of clearing can be fully or partially offset by the timber value. As with the plot to the right, the only cost remaining after selling the white pine was the cost of cleaning up the debris. Another problem with creating plots in previously wooded areas is that decaying organic matter can often be acidic, requiring multiple applications of lime to increase the pH of the existing soil.
One benefit is that once the woody species are removed you are left with a blank slate. Pre-emergent herbicides along with immediately planting a cover crop will help to suppress the native seed bank. If you are willing to go through with this sort of transformation it can be very rewarding. A newly established plot in such an area can provide rewards for wildlife for many years to come.
Fallow Fields to Plots
This transformation will not be as costly as replacing a wooded area with a plot, but it will have its own frustrations. Years upon years of wind and wildlife dispersed seeds are spread throughout the habitat area. The dense wild grass and forbe mixture will need an extended program for controlling regrowth. The initial preparation can be done with a prescribed fire, chemical burn down, or mowing and tilling. Several applications of herbicides could be needed over several sessions to fully get the native plants under control.
This plot location is appealing because the initial work needed is less expensive and less extensive than converting a wooded area. With this comes the possibility of quicker results. There will be some added upkeep needed though to eliminate the weedy competition.
Agriculture to Plots
Obviously the easiest of the 3 options. The weeds have probably been controlled, the soil has been ammended, and the soil biology is likely prime. Needless to say, this is the quickest, cheapest, and most productive option for a food plot.
Till (or no till), plant, maintain, and enjoy!
Call Before You Dig
Always protect yourself from underground hazards