First Thoughts on the Shot-plot Forage Attractant
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant from an undisclosed manufacturer is a product that immediately piqued my interest. Having spent over a decade working with outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless attractants come and go, often promising the world and delivering little. What sets this one apart, at least on paper, is its focus on forage brassicas, known for their palatability and nutritional value to deer. The promise of a quick-growing, 24″+ high plot in just 45 days, coupled with the self-renewing nature of brassicas as deer browse, makes it an intriguing option for any serious hunter or land manager.
I was looking for a dependable and affordable way to supplement the food sources on a smaller property I manage. My goal is to attract and hold deer throughout the hunting season.
The 2.5 lbs bag feels substantial, and the seeds appear to be of good quality. There’s a distinct earthy smell, which is reassuring. Compared to some of the “miracle grow” attractants I’ve seen, which often come in flashy packaging with vague ingredients, this seems more straightforward and honest.
I considered a couple of other options, including a clover blend and a pre-mixed brassica blend from a competitor. I chose the Shot-plot Forage Attractant primarily due to its price point and the specific mention of self-renewing brassicas. The promise of continual growth even after browsing was a significant deciding factor.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simple packaging and clear description suggested a no-nonsense product designed to deliver results. I was excited to see if it could live up to its promises and provide a consistent and attractive food source for the local deer herd.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shot-plot Forage Attractant to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Shot-plot Forage Attractant on a half-acre plot in a wooded area with decent sunlight. The soil was prepared according to the instructions on the bag: lightly tilled and cleared of weeds. Planting was done in late summer, just before a predicted period of rain.
The germination rate was surprisingly good. Within a week, tiny seedlings were emerging across the plot. The growth was noticeably faster than I had anticipated. The plants seemed to thrive even during a period of slightly cooler temperatures.
There were no major issues after the first use, but the initial density of the plants in some areas was inconsistent. This could have been due to uneven seed distribution or variations in soil conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks, the Shot-plot Forage Attractant plot was indeed thriving. The brassicas reached a height of over 24 inches in many areas, as advertised. The deer began to browse the plot heavily as the plants matured.
The durability of the plants proved to be excellent. Even after heavy browsing, the brassicas continued to produce new growth. There were no signs of disease or significant pest damage.
Maintenance was minimal, requiring only a single application of fertilizer to boost growth. Compared to other attractants I’ve used, this one has significantly outperformed them in terms of both growth rate and attractiveness to deer. It certainly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Shot-plot Forage Attractant
Specifications
- The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is an annual forage attractant specifically designed for deer. It’s a mixture of forage brassicas.
- The 2.5 lbs bag is intended to plant 1/2 acre. This coverage is standard for this type of product.
- The brassicas are developed to supplement and attract deer herds. Forage brassicas are very palatable and nutritious.
- The plants can grow to over 24 inches tall in approximately 45 days. This rapid growth is a significant benefit.
- As the brassicas mature, deer devour them. The forage plants then surge with growth to replace the devoured leaves.
Performance & Functionality
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant performs its job exceptionally well. It effectively attracts and holds deer. The quick growth and palatability of the brassicas make it a reliable food source throughout the hunting season.
The main strength is its ability to provide continuous forage even after heavy browsing. A potential weakness could be its reliance on adequate rainfall or irrigation for optimal growth. It exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is straightforward. The seed mixture is a simple blend of brassicas. The packaging is functional and provides clear instructions.
The product is user-friendly with minimal learning curve. Anyone familiar with planting seeds can easily use this attractant.
Durability & Maintenance
The brassicas are surprisingly durable, withstanding heavy browsing and moderate weather conditions. Maintenance is relatively low, requiring only occasional fertilization and weed control. It should easily last through the hunting season with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is primarily a standalone product, so there aren’t many accessories to consider. However, soil testing kits and appropriate fertilizers would certainly complement its use. It is compatible with most standard agricultural fertilizers and herbicides.
Pros and Cons of Shot-plot Forage Attractant
Pros
- Exceptional palatability to deer, resulting in high attraction rates.
- Rapid growth, reaching over 24 inches in about 45 days.
- Self-renewing nature of the brassicas provides continuous forage.
- Easy to plant and maintain, requiring minimal effort.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to most hunters and land managers.
Cons
- Requires adequate rainfall or irrigation for optimal growth.
- May need supplemental fertilization to maximize yield.
Who Should Buy Shot-plot Forage Attractant?
Perfect for hunters and land managers looking for an affordable and effective way to attract and hold deer on their property. It’s also suitable for individuals interested in supplementing the food sources for local deer herds.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals with extremely poor soil conditions or limited access to water for irrigation. Also, those who prefer perennial food plots may find this annual attractant less appealing.
A soil testing kit and appropriate fertilizer are must-have accessories. Depending on the location, fencing might be necessary to protect young plants from excessive browsing before they mature.
Conclusion on Shot-plot Forage Attractant
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is an excellent product that delivers on its promises. It provides a palatable, nutritious, and rapidly growing food source for deer. It is offered by the manufacturer at a justifiable price.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their hunting success or improve the habitat for local deer populations. This attractant offers exceptional value for money and the potential for significant results with minimal effort. Invest in the Shot-plot Forage Attractant and witness the difference it makes on your property this hunting season!