Setting up a biologic duck food plot involves several steps, from soil preparation to planting rates. It’s also important to manage the moisture in the soil, which can be critical for certain species. Some require extended periods of moisture or supplemental water, while others require less moisture and a more drained soil. For instance, Barnyard grass and Millets require little maintenance after planting, while Jungle rice requires natural precipitation rates to mature.
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Biotic products
Ducks and other waterfowl require food, and so it is important to plant food plots for these birds. Planting a food plot is a great way to improve the overall health of the duck population. The best time to plant is during the spring and summer months. Ducks are migratory birds and a food plot will increase the chance of them stopping over at your property for a feeding.
There are two types of grains to plant. Golden Millet can be planted in an impoundment that is flushed and drained to provide soil moisture during germination. Golden millet can also be sprayed after germination to help the plants grow faster.
Plants to consider for a duck food plot
If you’re interested in creating a biological duck food plot, you should start by choosing the right plants for the region. Native crops are easier to grow and are more suitable for ducks. You can find native food sources at your local Wild Seed Distributor. They’ll be happy to share their expertise with you.
There are many species of native plants suitable for creating a biologic duck food plot. Some of these include barnyard grass, a common species, and smartweed, which is an annual from the Knotweed family. You can start planting them as early as April and let them mature as early as September. These plants will attract ducks throughout the year and are inexpensive to plant.
Soybean seed treatment
Soybean seed treatment is an essential part of a successful biological duck food plot. This nutrient-rich crop will increase your plants’ nodulation, and provide them with a source of nitrogen that they need to grow. It will also increase the efficiency of your nitrogen fertilizer. The ideal soil pH for soybeans is 6.0. If you don’t achieve this pH, you can adjust the fertilizer to suit the soybeans.
Another benefit of soybean seed treatment is that it will reduce the risk of disease for ducks. Deer prefer soybeans over corn, so they’ll start eating them when they germinate. Deer can also overgraze small soybean stands, destroying them.
Moisture management
Proper soil preparation and broadcast rates are vital to the success of a food plot, but moisture management is equally critical. Certain species require prolonged periods of high moisture, while others need little water or minimal irrigation to thrive. For example, Barnyard grass and millets require little or no work once planted, while Jungle Rice needs a relatively high level of natural precipitation to mature.
In order to ensure adequate food and water availability for ducks, wetland management can be active or passive. Active management involves manipulating the hydrology of a wetland and constructing water control structures. This process allows habitat managers to create a seasonal buffer zone for waterfowl.
