Feeding deer in winter requires nutrient-rich, cold-tolerant options that sustain wildlife during harsh conditions. This article reviews the top five winter deer feed and food plot seeds available on Amazon. These selections include blends of peas, beets, herbs, and deer attractants, all designed to provide high protein, essential nutrients, and excellent deer attraction. Below is a summary table to compare key features of each product.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Whitetail Institute Winter Peas Plus Deer Food Plot Seed | Whitetail Institute | Very cold tolerant, high in protein and sugars for antler growth |
| Whitetail Institute Beets & Greens Deer Food Plot Seed | Whitetail Institute | Blend of sugar beets, kale, turnip, and radish for fall through winter |
| WILDGAME INNOVATIONS Apple Crushed Deer Attractant | Wildgame Innovations | Powerful apple scent with nutrient-filled proteins, long-lasting |
| Premium Blend Select Seed Blends for Deer | Pure Whitetail | Perennial, all-season high protein mix with clovers and winter peas |
| All-in-One Food Plot Seed + Fertilizer for Deer | Deer Society | Includes seed and fertilizers for ¼ acre, perennial plus annual blend |
Whitetail Institute Winter Peas Plus Deer Food Plot Seed
This seed blend consists of over 80% winter peas, making it extremely cold tolerant and highly suitable for late-season deer feeding. Specifically designed to maximize deer attraction when other forage is scarce, it boasts high levels of sugar and protein linked to antler growth. Tested by Whitetail Institute, it attracts more deer than other winter pea varieties, making it a reliable choice for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts seeking to maintain healthy deer populations during cold months. Covers approximately 0.25 acres.
Whitetail Institute Beets & Greens Deer Food Plot Seed for Fall Planting
This blend of sugar beets, kale, turnip, and radish is designed to attract and hold deer from fall through winter. Utilizing proprietary Whitetail Institute seed varieties, the blend offers a balanced forage ratio proven to provide abundant, highly attractive tonnage for deer. The combination ensures continual nutrition and grazing appeal, making it an excellent fall and winter food plot option to sustain deer during colder seasons across about 0.5 acres.
WILDGAME INNOVATIONS Apple Crushed 5lb Deer Attractant
This attractant harnesses the natural draw of sweet, ripe apples crushed into a nutrient-rich deer feed. It incorporates proteins and fats, ensuring it offers more than just scent but actual nutritional value. Its airborne extreme scent dispersion technology emits scent molecules at a rate six times higher than typical deer feeds, attracting deer from long distances. Ideal for hunting or wildlife observation, this feed offers a potent combination of taste, aroma, and nutrients.
Premium Blend Select Seed Blends for Deer by Pure Whitetail
This high-protein perennial seed blend features clover, winter peas, and other robust seeds suitable for all seasons. Its hardy seeds thrive in varying climates, making it versatile for different regions. Designed to automatically supplement protein intake, this blend reduces the need for pellet feeding by supporting natural feeding behaviors and nutrient requirements. Coverage spans approximately ¼ acre, perfect for establishing food plots near deer stands or blinds.
All-in-One Food Plot Seed + Fertilizer for Deer by Deer Society
This comprehensive system combines seed and fertilizer designed for a ¼ acre food plot that supports wildlife year-round. The blend includes both perennial and annual seeds such as brassicas, clovers, and chicory. The integrated fertilizers enhance plant growth by direct leaf absorption, unlike conventional pelletized fertilizers. This easy-to-use kit comes with step-by-step instructions and is suitable for those looking to maximize forage volume and attraction with minimal effort and equipment.
Buying Guide for Winter Deer Feed and Food Plot Seeds
Choosing the right feed or seed blend for deer in winter depends on several factors to ensure maximum nutritional benefit and attraction:
- Cold Tolerance: Select seeds and feeds that thrive or remain attractive in very cold temperatures. Winter peas and certain brassicas are excellent examples.
- Protein and Energy Content: Deer require higher protein and energy to maintain health and build antlers during winter; blends with high sugar and protein levels are optimal.
- Nutritional Variety: A mixture of leafy greens, roots (turnips, radishes, beets), and legumes provides diverse nutrients and better year-round palatability.
- Ease of Use: Consider seed blends that come with fertilizers or are ready-to-plant. Some all-in-one kits save time and promote better plot success.
- Scent and Attractant Properties: For targeted hunting or observation, deer attractants with strong scent dispersion can be more effective at drawing deer from a distance.
- Coverage Area and Seed Quantity: Ensure the seed quantity matches your intended plot size; typical packages cover 0.25 to 0.5 acres, depending on the product.
- Planting Timing: Plan seed planting based on fall and winter climate; some blends work best for fall planting to sustain deer through winter.
- Environmental Compatibility: Choose native or non-invasive species adapted to your local climate and soil conditions to support a sustainable food plot.
By carefully assessing these perspectives, hunters and wildlife managers can select deer feed and plot seeds that attract and sustain deer during challenging winter months while enhancing local ecosystem health.