Wildlife food plots – the complete guide to effective game management
How to establish wildlife food plots that benefit both game and hunting on your land.
A wildlife food plot is one of the most effective long-term tools in game management. With careful planning, it can improve habitat for game, increase biodiversity and enhance the hunting experience. Whether you are a hunter, landowner or nature enthusiast, wildlife food plots are a key part of modern, responsible game management.
This guide covers everything you need to know about wildlife food plots, from their purpose and location to crop selection, establishment and maintenance.
What is a wildlife food plot?
A wildlife food plot is an area deliberately cultivated or sown with crops that benefit game. Its purpose is not agricultural production, but to provide game with food, cover and undisturbed habitat throughout the year.
Wildlife food plots can be established on farmland, in woodland or on marginal land where conventional farming is less suitable.
Why are wildlife food plots important in game management?
Food during critical periods
Winter and early spring are often the most challenging periods for game. Wildlife food plots containing nutrient-rich crops can make a crucial difference to body condition, survival and breeding success.
Cover and security
Wildlife food plots allow game to remain in areas that offer both food and cover. This reduces stress and the need to travel long distances.
Increased biodiversity
Many wildlife food plot crops attract insects and other small animals, which in turn benefit birds and small game. A varied planting scheme also creates a more vibrant and resilient landscape.
Better hunting opportunities
When game has attractive places to feed and shelter, it congregates more naturally. This provides better opportunities for observation and more responsible, selective hunting.
Where to locate a wildlife food plot
Location has a major influence on a wildlife food plot's effectiveness.
Good locations include:
Transitions between woodland and fields
Along hedgerows and shelterbelts
Small field corners and awkward wedges of land
Field margins and low-lying areas
A wildlife food plot should be situated in a quiet area with limited human activity. This increases the likelihood of game using it regularly.
Size and layout
The size of a wildlife food plot matters less than its layout.
Smaller plots of 0.1 to 0.5 hectares are often the most effective
Several small plots are better than one large plot
Irregular shapes create more edge habitat and better cover
Edges are particularly important, as many game species spend time in these areas.
Crops for wildlife food plots
Crop choice depends on the soil, climate and game species you wish to support.
Annual crops
Annual crops provide quick results and are highly attractive to game:
Forage rape
Kale
Maize
Oats
Buckwheat
These crops are particularly suitable for deer.
Perennial crops
Perennial crops provide continuity and require less maintenance:
Red and white clover
Lucerne
Grass and herb mixtures
Suitable for roe deer, hares and small game.
Flower and insect-friendly mixtures
Flowering wildlife food plots support biodiversity:
Phacelia
Sunflower
Chicory
Perennial flower mixtures
These particularly benefit grey partridges, pheasants, small birds and insects.
Sowing times and establishment
Sowing time depends on the crop:
Spring sowing from March to May
Late-summer sowing from July to August
For successful establishment, you should:
Prepare the soil thoroughly
Ensure the correct sowing depth
Control weeds during establishment
Consider crop mixtures rather than a monoculture
Variety makes the plot more resilient and attractive to wildlife over time.
Maintaining a wildlife food plot
A wildlife food plot needs ongoing management to perform at its best:
Mow sections of the plot to create variety
Avoid spraying off the entire plot
Re-establish crops as needed
Limit the use of fertilisers and pesticides
A varied wildlife food plot provides better habitat for game throughout the year.
Which species benefit from wildlife food plots?
Wildlife food plots benefit many species:
Roe deer
Fallow and red deer
Grey partridge and pheasant
Hare
Small birds and insects
The benefits extend well beyond quarry species, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
Rules and grants for wildlife food plots
Wildlife food plots may be subject to various regulations and eligible for different funding schemes. These may include agricultural support, environmental grants or habitat management schemes. Always check the current legislation and available funding before establishing a plot.
Conclusion
A wildlife food plot is a cornerstone of responsible, long-term game management. Relatively simple measures can deliver significant improvements for game, nature and hunting alike. A well-planned plot contributes to a more varied landscape and a better balance between hunting and conservation.