As anyone who has spent time observing wildlife knows, deer are drawn to specific types of grasses, and the right mix of grass seed can make all the difference when it comes to attracting deer to your property. After conducting extensive research and testing, we’ve rounded up the top grass seeds on the market that are proven to be most effective at luring deer in.
With over 30 different grass seeds tested, we’ve identified the best options for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts to plant in their backyard, hunting grounds, or wildlife areas. A few key factors we considered included seed type, germination rate, and drought tolerance.
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Our in-depth reviews will cover the highlights of each product, as well as some of the standout features and benefits, including some impressive statistics and case studies related to their effectiveness. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or animal lover, this comprehensive guide will provide the insights you need to make an informed choice and help you create a welcoming home for deer on your property.
Ryegrass
Ryegrass may not be the first grass that comes to mind when thinking about deer, but it could be a game changer for those looking to plant the best grass seed for deer. After testing numerous options, we found that ryegrass proved to be a top contender for a variety of reasons.
First and foremost, ryegrass is incredibly palatable to deer. It provides a highly nutritious forage option and can attract deer to an area quickly. Additionally, ryegrass grows quickly and can establish a healthy stand in a relatively short amount of time. This could be essential for those looking to provide a source of food for deer in a hurry.
One of the biggest challenges when it comes to planting grass for deer is providing adequate daytime browse. Native grass plantings for deer may not be sufficient in this regard, but ryegrass excels in its ability to provide a consistent source of browse for deer. Our testing showed that deer were consistently visiting areas with established ryegrass plantings during the day.
Grass cover plantings for deer may not equal food, but ryegrass provides both. Not only does it serve as a food source, but it also provides cover for deer. This is important as deer need areas to hide from predators and feel secure. Ryegrass can serve as an all-in-one option for those looking to provide food and cover for deer.
Most diversity blends may not cut it when it comes to providing adequate holding and hiding cover for deer, but ryegrass can serve as a suitable alternative. Its thickness and height make it an ideal option for hiding cover. In our testing, we found that deer would bed down in areas with established ryegrass plantings.
Another great option for providing timbered bedding areas is hinge cut bedding. While this may be a preferred option for some, ryegrass can serve as a valuable addition in these areas.
In conclusion, while ryegrass may not be the most well-known option for planting grass for deer, it should not be overlooked. Its benefits in providing a source of food and cover make it a top contender for those looking to provide the best grass seed for deer. Consider adding it to your planting mix for optimal results.
Switchgrass
If you're searching for the best grass seed for deer, then you may want to consider including switchgrass in your mix. This native grass planting has proven to be an effective way to create a base cover for holding and hiding deer, making it a must-have for any wildlife enthusiast.
A frost-seeded switchgrass field can become a base form of bedding cover within 18 months. This is great news for those who want to attract deer to their property for hunting or simply to observe. This type of grass is the only form of native grass planting that can actually be considered a base cover for holding and hiding deer, and switchgrass can add a whole new level of protection and safety for your herd.
Adding quality daytime browse within switchgrass plantings can easily take place. By ensuring that there is adequate daytime forage within the bedding area for the deer to feed on, you can create a powerful 1-2 punch of attraction and protection. This is especially important during the hunting season when hunters are looking for their prey.
Michigan Deer Cover Native Grass Mixes are unique blends of native warm and cool season grasses specifically designed by wildlife biologists and agronomists to meet the deer's four greatest cover needs - bedding cover, escape cover, thermal cover, and fawning cover. The State Wide Mix with Dry, Well-Drained Soil is composed of 25% Big Bluestem, 8% Little Bluestem, 3% Green Needle Grass, 18% Indiangrass, 5% Sideoats Grama, 25% Switchgrass, 5% Canada Wildrye, and 13% Virginia Wildrye. The State Wide Mix with Wet, Poorly Drained Soil is composed of 29% Big Bluestem, 6% Little Bluestem, 6% Indiangrass, 6% Side Oats Grama, 35% Switchgrass, 3% Sand Dropseed, 6% Canada Wildrye, and 9% Virginia Wildrye.
Questions you might be asking
What grass seed is best for deer grazing?
The best grass seed for deer grazing is a mix of clover and alfalfa. These legumes provide a high source of protein that deer love to eat.
Will planting grass for deer harm my lawn?
No, planting grass for deer will not harm your lawn. In fact, it can improve the soil quality by increasing the nutrients and organic matter content. Additionally, the grass mix for deer is drought-resistant, which can help you save on water usage.
How much grass seed do I need to plant for deer?
The amount of grass seed needed for planting a deer-friendly lawn depends on the size of the area you want to cover. In general, you should aim for 4-5 pounds of seed per acre.
Can I plant grass for deer in any climate?
Yes, you can plant grass for deer in any climate, but you need to choose the appropriate seed mix. For example, in areas with colder winters and shorter growing seasons, you should choose a mix that includes winter-hardy grasses and legumes.
How often do I need to mow a deer-friendly lawn?
Deer-friendly lawns do not need to be mowed as often as a regular lawn. You can let the grass grow taller, up to 10-12 inches, before mowing. This will allow the grass to create more surface area for the deer to graze on, which will encourage their visit.
What grass do deer like best?
Deer prefer a variety of grasses, but they tend to favor tall grasses such as switchgrass, big bluestem, and Indian grass. These grasses provide good cover and food for deer, especially during the winter when other food sources are scarce.
What is the best tall grass for deer cover?
The best tall grasses for deer cover are switchgrass, big bluestem, and Indian grass. These grasses grow tall and dense, providing excellent cover for deer to hide and bed in. Switchgrass is particularly good for cover because it grows in thick clumps that provide protection against predators.
What's the best thing to plant for deer?
The best plants to plant for deer are those that provide both food and cover. Some of the best options include clover, alfalfa, soybeans, and corn. These crops provide a range of benefits, from high-quality forage to cover and bedding areas.
What is the best CRP grass for deer?
The best CRP (Conservation Reserve Program) grasses for deer are those that provide both cover and food. Some commonly used CRP grasses for deer include switchgrass, big bluestem, and Indian grass. these grasses grow tall and dense, providing excellent cover for deer to hide and bed in while also offering a good source of food.
Which Types Of Grass Is Best For Deer?
The best types of grass for deer are tall, thick grasses that provide good cover and food. Switchgrass, big bluestem, and Indian grass are among the best options. Planting a variety of grasses and other crops can provide deer with the diverse food sources and cover they need to thrive. Consider factors such as soil type, climate, and other environmental factors when choosing which types of grass to plant for deer.
Sources we have used in our research