Fall’s approaching, and so are discussions around how to create turkey food plots ahead of hunting season. In this Backyard Life video, Major League Fishing standout Andy Morgan shares his tips on creating world-class turkey food plots on his Tennessee property. Off the water, Morgan can usually be found pursuing his passion for hunting. And, more times than not, with bow and arrow in hand. His food plot, Morgan explains, helps keep game around by giving them something to eat in the wintertime—and him an opportunity to view them. It’s a very simple, green field food plot, planted with wheat, rye, and clover. So, follow along for the lowdown on how to create turkey food plots on your own property!
Clearing the Way
Morgan picks an area on the lower portion of his property near the treeline to make his turkey food plot. To start, he uses his bush hog (a type of rotary mower attachment) to clear and mow the plot area. He then uses the bush hog to cut a trail that actually enters it. Finally, Morgan continues into the woods, cutting a trail as he goes. These trails provide deer, turkeys, and other wildlife with easier food plot access. “They’ll always take the path of least resistance,” he says.
From Bush Hog to Disc
Morgan then swaps the bush hog out for another tractor attachment called a disc. He uses this tool to give freshly cut grass an even finer cut. Of course, this type of work never comes without hiccups, as evidenced by the flat disc tire he points out. Morgan expects them occasionally, noting they’re likely caused by dried-out rubber brought on by sweltering temps. Still, he fills the tires with air and gets to work, saying, “let’s see how long they stay filled.”
Laying the Seed
Next, Morgan uses a simple handheld seed sower to spread the seed. He’ll sometimes use a four-wheeler on larger plots, but this one’s only about one-third of an acre. Plus, Morgan recalls walking for miles while hand seeding as a kid. For now, he focuses on spreading the wheat seed. Soon after, he’ll finish with rye and clover layers. In addition to the wildlife this food plot attracts, Morgan notes its abundance of grasshoppers—another great turkey food source.
While seeding, Morgan comes across some turkey feathers—evidence that they’re hanging around. And, he’ll no doubt attract more once his food plot is complete. As he wraps up, Morgan points out a storm that’s beginning to brew. It’s perfect timing; hopefully, the clouds will provide his turkey food plot’s newly planted seeds with some much-needed moisture.
