Many food plotters spend all of their attention on what they plan to plant in August, but some of the best fall food plots actually begin in June. One of the most effective ways to build healthier soil, suppress weeds, and improve the performance of your fall planting is by establishing a strong buckwheat crop early in the summer. At Northwoods Whitetails, we view buckwheat as one of the most valuable green manure crops available to food plot managers.
Buckwheat grows rapidly during the warm summer months, producing a thick canopy that shades the soil and aggressively competes with weeds. Instead of fighting weed pressure all season long, a properly established buckwheat crop can do much of the work for you. The dense growth helps smother unwanted vegetation while protecting the soil from erosion and excessive moisture loss during the hottest part of the year.
For the best results, we recommend planting buckwheat in June at a rate of approximately 50 pounds per acre. Unlike some food plot species that can be successfully broadcast on the surface, buckwheat performs best when the seed is buried. Proper seed-to-soil contact and consistent moisture allow for rapid germination and vigorous growth. Taking the extra step to ensure the seed is covered will typically result in a thicker stand and significantly greater biomass production.
The real value of buckwheat becomes apparent in August when it is time to prepare for fall planting. Rather than allowing the crop to mature completely, we prefer to plow the buckwheat down while it is still green and actively growing. This process creates a natural green manure that returns organic matter to the soil and feeds the soil biology. As the buckwheat residue breaks down, it helps improve soil structure, increases water-holding capacity, and releases nutrients that can benefit the next crop.
A successful buckwheat crop can dramatically improve the seedbed for brassicas, cereal grains, clover, and other fall food plot plantings. The decomposing residue creates a healthier growing environment while reducing the need for aggressive tillage. Many food plotters are surprised at how much better their fall plots perform after incorporating a thick stand of buckwheat into their management program.
Another major benefit is the amount of biomass that buckwheat can generate in a relatively short period of time. In just a few weeks, a June planting can produce an impressive amount of organic material that becomes valuable food for soil microbes. Healthy soils support healthier plants, and healthier plants ultimately provide more nutrition for deer.
At Northwoods Whitetails, we often say that great food plots are built from the soil up. A June-planted buckwheat crop is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve soil health before your fall planting season arrives. By planting 50 pounds per acre, ensuring the seed is properly buried, and incorporating the crop as a green manure in August, you can create the foundation for a more productive and successful fall food plot. The work you do in June may be the biggest factor in the success of your hunting season this fall.
