8 Best Things to Plant for Turkeys in 2026 – A Food Plot Guide

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.

Whitetail Hill's Bucks and Beards food plot seed mix is a carefully crafted blend of three clovers, chicory, triticale, and joint vetch, designed to attract both deer and turkeys throughout the year. This perennial mix excels in small plots, logging roads, and partial shade areas where traditional equipment can't reach. Whether you're a seasoned land manager or a weekend hunter, this mix offers a straightforward solution for creating a high-protein food source that keeps game returning season after season.

What sets this mix apart is its dual-purpose design. The cereal grains and clovers provide immediate fall and winter forage for deer, while the chicory and joint vetch bring in insects for turkeys come spring. The shade tolerance is a real plus, allowing planting in wooded edges and small kill plots. It's no-till friendly, so you can simply rake the soil and broadcast seeds for quick establishment. The included triticale acts as a fast-growing nurse crop to protect the slower perennials, ensuring a lush stand.

In terms of performance, the mix lives up to its promise. User reviews consistently rate it 5 stars, praising its high germination rate and ability to attract deer and turkeys even in challenging conditions. The perennial nature means you'll see regrowth for multiple years, though some supplemental fertilization may be needed based on soil tests. The required pH range (5.5-7.0) is typical for most food plots, but testing your soil first is a smart move.

One potential drawback is the bag size: choose between a 1/4 acre or 2 acre coverage. If you have larger plots, you'll need multiple bags. Also, the mix is primarily for deer and turkeys, so if you're targeting other species like quail or waterfowl, you might need a different blend. But for its intended purpose, this mix is hard to beat.

Overall, the Bucks and Beards mix is a solid investment for any hunter or wildlife enthusiast looking to establish a reliable, low-maintenance food plot. It's versatile, easy to plant, and delivers on its promise of year-round attraction.

The Barenbrug Free Range GroundCover Forage Seed Mixture is a thoughtfully blended seed mix designed to give your backyard livestock a healthy, natural food source. This 3-pound bag contains a variety of grass, clover, and forage species that sprout quickly and provide a continuous supply of greens for chickens, game birds, goats, and sheep. Whether you're looking to supplement your animals' diet or create a dedicated grazing area, this mix offers a practical solution.

The standout feature is its fast germination. Many users report seeing growth within 3 to 5 days, with full coverage in about two weeks. This quick turnaround makes it ideal for those who want to establish forage without a long wait. The blend itself is diverse, including ryegrass and clover, which are highly palatable and nutritious. You can sow it in trays, chicken runs, pastures, or even in orchard alleyways and vineyard rows, giving you flexibility in how you use it.

In terms of performance, the seed thrives best in sunny, well-drained spots. It also works well in grazing boxes or under wire covers to prevent chickens from scratching out the seedlings. Reviews consistently praise its ability to attract and satisfy animals, with chickens devouring the greens. Some users noted that it struggled in wet, heavy clay soil or over winter, so proper site preparation and drainage are important. The seed's coverage rate (1-2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft) means a single bag can cover a substantial area, offering good value for the price.

The build and design of the product are straightforward: a sealed bag of high-quality seed from Barenbrug, a company with decades of experience in pasture and forage mixes. There are no extras or chemicals, just the seed blend. The main drawback is that it may not be a permanent groundcover in challenging environments; it's best treated as a seasonal forage crop that can be replanted as needed. Some customers found that it didn't survive winter in soggy backyards, but it performed well in sunnier, drier spots.

Overall, the Barenbrug Free Range GroundCover Forage Seed Mixture delivers on its promise of fast, animal-friendly forage. It's an excellent choice for anyone raising poultry, goats, or sheep who wants to offer fresh greens and encourage natural foraging behavior. Just be realistic about your soil conditions and climate. If you have a well-drained area with decent sunlight, this seed will likely exceed expectations. For challenging spots, you might need to amend the soil or try a different approach. But for most backyard setups, it's a reliable, cost-effective option that keeps your animals happy and healthy.

Domain Outdoor's Comeback Kid Food Plot Seeds is a carefully blended mix of special clover varieties and alfalfa designed to create a high-protein, perennial food source for deer and turkey. This product targets hunters and land managers who want a long-term food plot that provides year-round attraction without the hassle of annual replanting. With protein levels above 30%, it supports herd health, antler growth, and overall wildlife nutrition.

The standout feature is its longevity. Priced competitively, this mix establishes quickly and can persist for up to five years, saving time and money over the long haul. Real-world reviews confirm strong germination from both spring planting and frost seeding. One reviewer noted fantastic germination even with cold temperatures and rain in Northeast Ohio. Another shared that their plot came back even more impressive in the second year, with deer destroying it spring and late fall. The blend is also cold tolerant, holding up well through northern winters.

Design-wise, the seeds come in a handy reusable jug covering 1/2 acre. The mix is formulated to be low maintenance: periodic mowing (down to 6-8 inches when flowers appear) encourages fresh growth and keeps the plot vigorous. It tolerates partial shade and works in sandy or average soil, though proper pH (around 6.0-7.0) is recommended for best results.

On the downside, a small number of users reported no germination; this could stem from poor soil prep, improper pH, or seed placement issues. Additionally, one reviewer wished for more clover varieties instead of alfalfa, so if you specifically want a pure clover plot, this may not be the best choice. The mix does require a bit of upfront work to get the soil right, but that's true for any food plot.

Overall, the Domain Outdoor Comeback Kid is a solid choice for anyone looking to establish a reliable, perennial food plot that delivers high protein forage year after year. Its combination of quick establishment, cold hardiness, and proven deer attraction make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and wildlife enthusiasts.

Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Expected Blooming Period: Year Round

Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Expected Planting Period: Spring

Soil Type: Sandy Soil (adaptable)

Item Weight: 3.8 Pounds

Coverage: 1/2 Acre (22,000 sq ft)

Plant Type: Clover and Alfalfa Blend

Brand: Domain This Is Your Land

Manufacturer: Domain Outdoor

The Domain Outdoor Hot Chic Food Plot Seeds are designed for hunters and land managers who want a reliable, low-maintenance food plot that keeps deer coming back. This blend of chicory and two clover varieties is built to handle tough conditions, from acidic soils to drought, making it a solid choice for both new and experienced plot planters.

One of the standout features is its hardiness. The mix tolerates a pH range of 5.8 to 7.0 and can persist for several years as a perennial. Users consistently report that deer find it highly attractive, with many noting thick growth and heavy browsing. The blend is also versatile, working in full sun or partial shade, and it can be planted in spring, summer, or fall. That flexibility is a big plus for planning around your schedule.

In terms of usability, the 3-pound jug covers a half acre, which is plenty for most small to medium plots. You don't need heavy equipment; a garden rake and hoe are enough for many users. That said, success depends on proper preparation and timing. Some buyers in hotter regions like Texas had poor results, likely due to extreme heat or dry soil, so watering is important if rain is scarce.

On the downside, the price is a bit higher than basic single-species seeds, but the convenience of a pre-mixed, perennial blend can justify the cost. A few users also mention that periodic mowing and fertilizing help keep the plot vigorous. Overall, if you're looking for a deer-attracting food plot that's easy to establish and lasts, Hot Chic is a reliable option.

Final verdict: The Domain Outdoor Hot Chic mix is a well-rounded, hardy food plot seed that delivers on its promises for most conditions. It's not a miracle cure for every climate, but for the majority of users, it's a great investment in a long-lasting food source.

The Mountain Valley Seed Company No-Till Garden Cover Crop Mix is exactly what you need if you want to improve your soil without a lot of fuss. This 5-pound bag contains a thoughtful blend of nine seeds, including hairy vetch, daikon radish, triticale, and more. It's designed for no-till gardening, raised beds, containers, and even large farm plots. Whether you're a home gardener or managing a bigger space, this mix makes it easy to boost fertility and suppress weeds naturally.

What really sets this product apart is how well it performs. One reviewer in Northwest Georgia said the forage shot up to knee high in just six weeks after a September sowing. Another gardener in California used it to fight persistent Bermuda buttercup and after a few months the cover crop took over, leaving a beautiful green carpet. The germination is fast, often within a week, and the variety of seeds means you get both quick ground cover and deep root action. The daikon radish breaks up compacted soil, while the legumes fix nitrogen so your next planting gets a real head start.

The mix is straightforward to use: just broadcast the seeds over prepared soil, rake lightly, and water. The pre-inoculated seeds save you an extra step, and the packaging includes clear seeding rates (2-4 lbs per 1000 sq ft). Most users found it easy to manage, though some noted that a few of the larger seeds, like peas, didn't always sprout. That's a minor quibble given the overall success rate. And if you have aggressive weeds like the buttercup, you might need an extra round of weeding, but the cover crop holds its own.

On the downside, some plants in this mix can become persistent. A reviewer in zone 7 mentioned that the cover crop didn't overwinter in shade but did fine in sun. Also, if you let it go to seed, you may get volunteers in your next crop. That's common with cover crops, so just cut or till it in before seeds set. The 5-pound bag covers about 600 square feet, which is a good size for most gardens or small plots.

Overall, this is a solid value. The mix is diverse, the germination is excellent, and the benefits to your soil are tangible. Mountain Valley Seed Company has been in the game since 1974, and it shows in the quality. We'd recommend it to any gardener looking to improve soil health, suppress weeds, or add organic matter without complicated work. Just scatter it and let nature do the rest.

Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms are a straightforward, high-protein treat designed to attract some of the most sought-after backyard birds. If you have struggled to bring in bluebirds, wrens, robins, or chickadees with standard seed blends, this product offers a targeted solution. The 3.5-ounce pouch contains 100% oven-dried mealworms, preserving the nutritional value of live mealworms while offering a more convenient, no-fuss option for birders.

One of the standout features is the versatility in feeding. You can place the mealworms in a hopper feeder, a tube feeder, or a platform feeder placed near shrubs for best results. They also work well mixed with your favorite wild bird seed. The high protein content makes them especially valuable during nesting season when birds need extra energy to feed their young. Many birders report that this product helps attract species that are notoriously shy of seed feeders, adding variety to your backyard birdwatching experience.

The dried format is a practical choice for busy birders. Unlike live mealworms, which require refrigeration and can be messy, these are shelf-stable and easy to store. The oven-drying process locks in nutrients without the hassle. However, the pouch is relatively small at 3.5 ounces, so you might need to stock up if you have a large or active bird population. Some birds may also need a little time to recognize dried mealworms as food, but once they do, they often become regular visitors.

In terms of build quality, Kaytee is a trusted name in wild bird food, and this product comes with a satisfaction guarantee. There are no artificial additives or fillers, just pure mealworms. The only potential drawback is the portion size, but for most backyard birders, it is a convenient way to test whether local birds take to mealworms. If they do, you can always buy larger quantities later.

Overall, the Kaytee Mealworms deliver on their promise to attract a diverse range of insect-eating birds. They are easy to use, nutritious, and a great addition to any bird feeding routine. If you want to see more bluebirds and wrens at your feeder, this is a solid, trustworthy option.

CoopCare Healthy Greens Wheatgrass Fodder Seed is a premium, non-GMO wheat berry blend designed to provide fresh, nutrient-rich greens for backyard chickens (and even cats or dogs). The seeds are family-farmed organically in the USA and boast a 99.54% germination rate, meaning you'll get a dense mat of grass with minimal waste. This product is ideal for chicken keepers looking to supplement their flock's diet with natural vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, especially during winter when fresh forage is limited.

The standout feature is its incredible ease of growth. Simply soak the seeds, spread them in a tray with drainage holes, and keep them moist. In 7-10 days you'll have 2-5 inch tall greens ready to harvest. Chickens love pecking at the fresh grass, which also keeps them entertained and reduces stress. Many users report improved egg production and egg quality after adding this fodder to their flock's diet. The seeds can be grown indoors year-round, in a sunny window or under grow lights, or directly in the chicken run.

Build quality is straightforward: a resealable pouch filled with clean, uniform wheat berries. There are no additives or weed seeds. The included spray sample (chick fresh) is a nice bonus for coop odor control, though not essential. In terms of performance, most reviews are very positive, with users praising the high germination rate and their animals' eagerness to eat the greens. A few customers noted slower-than-expected growth or an unpleasant smell during sprouting, which can usually be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation and not over-watering.

Overall, CoopCare Healthy Greens delivers exactly what it promises: an easy, cost-effective way to offer your chickens fresh, live greens that boost health and egg quality. It's also a hit with cats and dogs who enjoy nibbling on wheatgrass. While the 1lb bag may not last long for large flocks, the value per ounce is reasonable. I recommend it to any backyard chicken owner looking to enrich their flock's diet naturally.

Brand: CoopCare
Item Weight: 16 ounces (1 lb)
Unit Count: 16.0 Ounce
Plant or Animal Type: Wheat
Material Features: GMO Free, Non-GMO
Special Feature: Premium
Sunlight Exposure: Bright Indirect Light / Full Sun
Moisture Needs: Keep Moist / Good Drainage
Soil Type: Soilless Potting Soil / No Soil Required
Expected Blooming Period: Year Round
Expected Planting Period: Winter (but can be grown any season indoor)
Product Dimensions: 5 x 3 x 6 inches