Question about new food plot

[Stickslinger]

We just accuired a new piece of property, it has several 1-1.5 acre fields scattered throughout, it looks like someone had once had cleared these ares for food plots but never planted anything. Currently the fields have weeds that are 3-4 ft tall, not sure what they are. What would be the best way to prepare these sites for food plots, we are not going to be starting the plots until spring. Should we spray the weeds or will plowing up the fields take care of the weeds? Thanks

[13littleones]

First I would check the PH level in your fields to see if they need some lime.. If they do need lime, its best to do it now rather then waiting until sping. Plow them over should work, you can use roundup a few week before you plant.

[Stickslinger]

Thanks, I will get several samples and see what the PH is.

[dogdoc]

yes---soil samples would be my first step and then get the needed lime applied as soon as you can. If you can get the lime disced in this winter that would be great.

Next spring I would redisc the field as soon as green up starts. This will kill the newly germinated weeds. I would then plant a forage variety of roundup ready soybeans. This will provide two needs. First the soybeans will be great warm season forage and protein. It will also allow you to spray the fields with glyphosate (roundup) during the growing season which will kill any new weeds and grasses. Then next fall you can disc under the soybeans and either plant some annual cool season plants or start a good perennial.

let me know if you have questions.

todd

[Stickslinger]

Thanks Todd, I have access to a plow and tractor, would it be better to use a plow or just disc it? Thanks for the advice.

Rodney

[dogdoc]

Thanks Todd, I have access to a plow and tractor, would it be better to use a plow or just disc it? Thanks for the advice.

Rodney

disc

[Stickslinger]

Thanks Todd.

[LETMGROW]

By all means take soil samples and have them analyzed by a lab.

I would get in there and cut down as much weed as possible so it can rot away over the dormant winter time. Next spring,disc up the plots you want, let the weeds etc. start to grow then spray with glyphosate a week or two before planting.

If you wanted to ,it would be good to spray this fall also. This will help with the decaying process of the weeds and root systems.

With the price of glyphosate being what it is, this would be your call.

Lynn

[redman]

Yes first take soil samples but also before you disc or bushhog remember that if u plan to hunt turkeys in the spring there leave some of the thick brush cause they will use it for cover and protection and should bring more game into your food plot

[Stickslinger]

Thanks everyone.

[csualumni21000]

Disc and sample.