Best Thing to Plant for Doves in 2026: Seed Mixes and Crops That Attract Doves – 8 Top Picks

The WhitetailHill Dove and Quail Food Plot Seed Mix is a purpose-built blend of millet and grain sorghum designed to attract doves, quail, turkeys, and other upland game birds. It's aimed at hunters and wildlife managers who need a reliable food plot that can withstand deer pressure and dry spells. The mix comes in a 5.25-pound bag covering about 1/3 acre, with a larger 1.5-acre option also available.

Two standout features are deer browse resistance and drought tolerance. Unlike many seed mixes that include sunflowers (which deer love to eat as seedlings), this blend uses millet and sorghum, which deer tend to leave alone until the grain heads mature in fall. That means your field won't get wiped out before it gets going. The drought tolerance is a real plus if you're planting in sandy or rocky ground where other seed struggles to establish.

In terms of real-world use, the seed is straightforward to plant. You disc, till, or plow, then broadcast or drill and lightly drag to cover. Planting depth should be 1/4 to 1/2 inch. The recommended planting window is May through early July for most regions, and you want to put it in about 60 to 90 days before you expect birds to start feeding. While there are no customer reviews yet, the ingredients are proven performers for game bird food plots across the country.

One potential drawback is that this mix requires full sun and a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5, so it might not work under dense tree canopy. Also, it doesn't include any sunflowers; some managers like adding sunflowers for extra attraction, but the trade off here is better deer resistance. You'll also need to provide your own fertilizer, as none is included in the bag.

Overall, this mix is a solid choice if you're setting up a small food plot for doves or managing quail habitat. The deer resistance alone saves a lot of hassle, and the drought tolerance means it can handle less-than-perfect conditions. Just plan ahead and prep your soil properly, and you should have a productive field come fall.

When to Plant: North: May to June. Central: May to June. South: May to early July. Plant 60-90 days before you want birds feeding.

Where to Plant: Full sun areas. Can be used as a standalone field or in strips to create edge habitat. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5, with moderate fertility.

Soil Prep: Disc, tiller, or plow. Can be drilled. Lightly drag to cover seed, but do not cover deeper than 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Culti-pack after planting for best results.

Fertilizer: For best results, use the Whitetail Hill Soil Test and apply fertilizer as recommended. No fertilizer is included in the bag.

The TnT Seed Company Peredovik sunflower seeds are designed for anyone looking to establish a wildlife food plot, pollinator garden, or cover crop on a budget. This 5-pound bag contains over 29,000 seeds and claims to cover up to a quarter acre. The variety is a classic black oil sunflower, known for its high oil content that attracts birds and other wildlife.

In terms of performance, the reviews are mixed. Several customers report excellent germination and healthy, tall plants that attract a variety of birds and pollinators. They praise the fast growth and the value for the price. However, a notable number of buyers experienced very poor germination, with some seeing zero or single-digit percent emergence. This suggests that seed quality may vary between batches, or that specific growing conditions (soil temperature, moisture, seed depth) are critical for success.

The seeds themselves appear clean and well-packaged, with no visible damage for most users. The Peredovik variety typically grows 4 to 5 feet tall and produces large seed heads. It is a reliable choice for attracting songbirds, pheasants, doves, and deer when it does grow. The product is also non-GMO, which appeals to organic gardeners and those concerned about wildlife health.

On the downside, the inconsistent germination is a real risk. If you plan to plant a large area, you may want to do a small test patch first or consider mixing with a cover crop like buckwheat to ensure coverage. The seeds also require full sun and well-prepared soil to perform their best. They are not a “throw and grow” solution in all conditions.

Overall, these sunflower seeds offer great potential for the price and can be a fantastic addition to a pollinator habitat or food plot. But because of the germination variability, they are best suited for patient growers who can monitor conditions and are willing to supplement if needed. If you have had success with Peredovik in the past, these are a solid option. If you are new to planting sunflowers, you might want to start with a smaller bag from a different source to test viability.

The Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Seed Mix is a bulk blend of 23 different annual and perennial wildflower seeds designed to turn any patch of soil into a pollinator paradise. This one-ounce pouch contains thousands of seeds with no filler, making it a cost-effective way to establish a colorful, low-maintenance garden. The mix is suitable for USDA zones 1 through 10 and can be planted in spring for summer-to-fall blooms. It is especially appealing to gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.

The standout feature of this product is its sheer variety. You get annuals like snapdragons, cosmos, forget-me-nots, and larkspur alongside perennials like butterfly milkweed, columbine, and scarlet salvia. This mix ensures a long season of changing colors and heights, from low-growing alyssum to taller cosmos and zinnias. Customer reviews consistently mention strong germination rates, with many users seeing sprouts within days. The resealable packaging is a thoughtful touch that helps maintain seed freshness for multiple seasons.

In terms of real-world performance, most gardeners report good success, though results can vary by climate and care. A few users noted that some varieties may take longer to bloom, and if seeds are sown too thickly, the more vigorous flowers can overshadow the rest. A light hand when scattering is advised. The seeds are heirloom and GMO-free, which adds to the appeal for organic growers. The brand's reputation for quality and generous quantity makes this a popular choice among both novice and experienced gardeners.

One potential drawback is that the mix may not produce all listed varieties equally in every region. For instance, impatient gardeners wanting instant color might be disappointed by slower-growing perennials. Additionally, some customers in very hot or humid climates found that afternoon shade improved results. But overall, the value is hard to beat. The large pack provides plenty of seeds for a sizeable area, and leftovers can be stored for the next season.

If you are looking for a straightforward, effective way to attract pollinators and add vibrant color to your yard, this seed mix is an excellent investment. It is beginner-friendly, generously portioned, and backed by thousands of positive reviews. With reasonable expectations and proper planting, you can enjoy a lively, butterfly-filled garden from midsummer through fall.

The Iron and Clay Cowpea from CaribbeanGarden is a versatile warm-season legume that serves as both a cover crop and a food plot for wildlife. Gardeners in the southern US, especially those with clay soils, will find this an excellent choice for building soil fertility while attracting quail and dove.

These seeds are fast-growing, reaching up to 2.5 feet in hot weather, and their long taproots provide impressive drought tolerance. They can fix significant amounts of nitrogen (up to 315 lb per acre) and produce high organic matter when tilled under. For wildlife enthusiasts, the dense foliage and seed pods are a magnet for game birds.

The seeds are organic and come in a 1-pound bag (about 4,000 seeds). They are untreated, so for best results you will want to inoculate them with the appropriate rhizobium bacteria. The product is straightforward to use: broadcast at 20-30 lb per acre for row planting or up to 120 lb per acre for thick cover.

However, these cowpeas have a few limitations. They are frost-sensitive, so they must be planted after the last frost in spring. They also need well-drained soil; wet conditions can lead to poor performance. Additionally, weed pressure can be an issue if not planted thickly enough.

Overall, the CaribbeanGarden Iron and Clay Cowpea seeds are a solid, organic option for gardeners focused on soil health and wildlife habitat. While they require some care regarding timing and soil conditions, their benefits for nitrogen fixation and as a food source make them a worthwhile addition to any warm-season garden or food plot.

The Groundio Wildflower Seeds Hummingbird and Butterfly Mix is a straightforward, no-nonsense seed blend that delivers on its promise: a colorful, pollinator-friendly garden without breaking the bank. With 24 varieties of annuals and perennials packed into a single ounce, this mix is designed for gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and ladybugs to their outdoor space. It's ideal for beginners looking for an easy win or seasoned gardeners wanting to expand a pollinator patch on a budget.

What sets this mix apart is its purity. Groundio uses 99% pure live seed with no filler, which means you're getting more actual seed per packet and better germination rates. Most users report seeing sprouts within 5-10 days, with flowers following in 35-75 days. The resealable aluminum foil packaging is a thoughtful touch, keeping seeds fresh for staggered planting or future seasons. In real-world use, the mix reliably produces a vibrant display of blooms like salvia, cosmos, and zinnias that truly attract hummingbirds and butterflies, as confirmed by multiple reviewers who saw results in their own yards.

The seeds are easy to sow: just scatter on prepared soil, lightly cover, and water. They thrive in full sun and adapt well to various climates, from Zone 6b to warmer regions. The coverage is generous, with one ounce covering up to 194 square feet, making it a cost-effective option for larger areas. While the blend is a mix, some users noted that a few varieties, like lupine, can be finicky or that the resulting flowers may lean toward one or two types rather than a full diversity. This is a common issue with seed mixes, but it's worth noting if you're hoping for a perfectly balanced array.

On the downside, a handful of customers experienced lower-than-expected germination, especially after a late freeze or in less-than-ideal soil conditions. One experienced gardener reported that only two types sprouted, though those that did were healthy and attractive. Another reviewer found the blooms were all the same, which suggests that the mix's variety may not always manifest equally. These issues seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, but they highlight the importance of proper planting timing and soil preparation for best results.

Overall, the Groundio Wildflower Seeds Hummingbird and Butterfly Mix is a solid choice for anyone wanting to create a lively, pollinator-friendly garden without spending a fortune. Its high germination rate, pure seed content, and attractive packaging make it a reliable option for most gardeners. Just be prepared for some natural variability in the bloom mix and give the seeds the right conditions to thrive. For the price and coverage, it's hard to beat.

The SweetYards Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Humming Bird Mix is a straightforward way to turn a patch of bare soil into a lively pollinator paradise. With over 7,500 seeds in a single 1-ounce packet, you get enough to cover about 100 square feet. The mix includes 23 open-pollinated species, a blend of annuals and perennials, so you can expect flowers from spring through fall. It's designed for anyone who wants to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, honey bees, and ladybugs without a lot of fuss.

In real-world use, this mix delivers on its promise of easy germination and vibrant color. Many reviewers report that seeds sprout quickly and grow into healthy plants with minimal care. The flowers create a tapestry of multiple colors, and the variety keeps the garden interesting all season. The resealable packaging is a nice touch, letting you store leftover seeds without worry. SweetYards also backs the product with a 30-day germination guarantee, which adds peace of mind for first-time wildflower growers.

That said, a few users note that some perennials didn't return the following year, which can be disappointing if you're counting on long-term blooms. Also, blooming can take a few weeks after germination, so patience is key. The mix is heavy on certain species, so you might not get an even spread of all 23 types. But for the price and seed count, it's still a great value.

Overall, the SweetYards Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Humming Bird Mix is a reliable choice for gardeners of all skill levels. It's easy to plant, attracts beneficial wildlife, and provides a colorful display with minimal effort. If you're looking to create a pollinator-friendly garden on a budget, this mix is worth a try.

If you're looking to turn a patch of your yard into a buzzing, fluttering paradise, the Burpee Wildflower 25,000 Bulk seed mix is an excellent place to start. This blend is specifically formulated to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, with 18 different annual and perennial flower varieties. It's designed for gardeners of all skill levels, from beginners wanting a simple 'scatter and grow' solution to seasoned pros looking to fill large areas with color. The goal is simple: cover up to 1,000 square feet with a diverse mix of blooms that last from spring until the first frost.

What makes this mix stand out is the sheer variety and the Burpee guarantee. You get seeds like Butterfly Milkweed, Cosmos, Black Eyed Susan, and Zinnia, all mixed together in a single bag. Real-world results from thousands of buyers are generally very positive. Many reviewers report seeing germination within a couple of weeks and a stunning display of flowers that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season. The mix includes both annuals and perennials, so after the first year, you'll get returning flowers without replanting everything. The 'throw and grow' method really works for most people, especially if you prepare a sunny bed with loose soil and keep it moist initially.

As for quality, Burpee is a trusted name in gardening since 1876. The seeds are non-GMO and hand-picked by horticulturalists, and the company claims germination rates 35% higher than the industry standard. The seeds come in a simple, resealable bag with clear instructions. It's not flashy, but it's functional. The 8-ounce bag is light but contains a surprisingly large number of seeds (25,000). Some users comment that the bag looks small for the claim, but the coverage is accurate when spread properly.

However, it's not foolproof. A handful of customers experienced poor germination or no growth at all. This seems to depend on the specific bag (possibly storage conditions) and the care taken during planting. The seeds need consistent moisture in the first few weeks, and they prefer full sun. If you have heavy clay soil or neglect watering, results will suffer. Also, while the 1,000 sq ft coverage is accurate for a light scattering, if you want a dense meadow, you might need two or three bags for that size area.

Overall, the Burpee Wildflower mix is a reliable, high-value product for creating a pollinator-friendly garden. The positives outweigh the occasional inconsistency, especially given Burpee's willingness to replace defective bags. If you're ready to add some wild beauty to your landscape and support local wildlife, this is a smart choice.

The Morning Glory Heavenly Blue seeds from Marde Ross & Company are a classic choice for gardeners who want a fast-growing climbing vine with vivid sky-blue flowers. This pack contains 250 non-GMO heirloom seeds, ideal for covering trellises, arches, walls, and fences. It's a great pick for both beginners and experienced growers looking to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to their garden.

These seeds are known for their strong germination, especially when soaked before planting. Many reviewers report seeing sprouts within a few days. The vines can grow 10 to 12 feet in a season, creating a lush green backdrop dotted with 4- to 5-inch trumpet-shaped blooms. However, results vary: some users get abundant flowers, while others see mostly leaves. Over-fertilizing or too-rich soil can inhibit blooming, so it's best to treat them a bit neglectfully.

The seeds come in a standard resealable packet with clear planting instructions. The brand is a trusted California nursery since 1985, and the seeds are stored in temperature-controlled conditions to ensure freshness. The 250-count pack offers great value for covering large areas.

On the downside, morning glories can become invasive in warm climates, self-seeding and spreading aggressively. Some customers found the vines hard to remove. Also, if you're counting on immediate blooms, you might need to be patient; they bloom from summer to fall, but only after the vines have matured. Late planting or too much shade can delay flowering.

Overall, the Marde Ross Heavenly Blue morning glory seeds deliver a beautiful, pollinator-friendly vine when given the right conditions. For best results, plant in full sun, avoid heavy fertilizer, and provide a sturdy support. With proper care, you'll enjoy a cascade of sky-blue flowers that bring life to your garden.

For best germination, soak the seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours before planting. Some gardeners add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to prevent mold. Sow outdoors after the last frost when soil is warm. Plant 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Morning glories prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, though flowering may be reduced.

Space seeds 6-12 inches apart if planting in ground, or 1-2 seeds per 4-inch pot for transplanting. Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge (5-10 days). Once established, water only when dry to encourage deep roots. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes leaves over flowers. Instead, use a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer sparingly. Provide a trellis, fence, or arch for the vines to climb. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming and reduce self-seeding if you want to control spread.