The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb. Made a Bold First Impression
The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb. promises a late-season deer magnet, banking on the brassica family’s unique ability to sweeten after a hard frost. I’ve spent years experimenting with different food plot strategies, always chasing that magic bullet that keeps deer coming back when other food sources dwindle. This seed blend, offered by the reputable Whitetail Institute, grabbed my attention with its promise of palatable and increasingly attractive forage during the harshest months.
My quest started years ago when I noticed my deer numbers plummeting after the first few frosts. Standard food plots of corn and soybeans were quickly devoured, leaving my property barren when it mattered most. I needed something that could withstand the cold and actually become more appealing as winter tightened its grip.
The 12 lb. bag arrived in a sturdy, resealable package, a welcome sight that speaks to the company’s commitment to product quality. The seeds themselves were a mix of shapes and sizes, indicative of the brassica blend promised on the label. Compared to a generic bag of turnip seeds I had previously used, the Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed looked more diverse and professionally blended.
I was cautiously optimistic. Past attempts at late-season plots had been disappointing, often resulting in stunted growth or, worse, complete crop failure. But the Whitetail Institute’s reputation and the science behind the “sweetening” effect of brassicas convinced me to give it another shot. My initial excitement was tempered with the practical knowledge that success hinges on proper soil preparation and timely planting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb. to the Test
First Use Experience
I allocated a one-acre plot, previously used for soybeans, to the Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed. After a soil test confirmed a slightly acidic pH, I amended it with lime to achieve the recommended range of 6.0-7.0. The seedbed was prepared using a disc harrow, followed by a cultipacker to create a firm and level surface.
I broadcast the seed at the recommended rate, taking care to ensure even distribution across the plot. Light rain followed the planting, providing ideal moisture for germination. Within a week, tiny seedlings emerged, a promising sign that the seeds were viable and the soil conditions were favorable. However, I also noted some weed competition, requiring a follow-up application of a selective herbicide.
The Wintergreens plot thrived even as temperatures began to drop. The brassicas displayed noticeable growth, with varying leaf shapes and sizes. Deer began browsing the plot lightly in late October, but their interest intensified significantly after the first hard frost in mid-November. The plants did indeed seem to become more palatable, with deer spending increasing amounts of time feeding in the plot.
Extended Use & Reliability
The Wintergreens plot provided a consistent food source throughout the late season. Even after multiple heavy snowfalls, the brassicas remained accessible to deer, thanks to their sturdy stems. There were minimal signs of disease or pest damage, indicating the blend’s overall resilience.
The plot showed impressive durability, withstanding harsh winter conditions and heavy browsing pressure. Minor signs of wear and tear were limited to some leaf damage from the deer. Minimal maintenance was required beyond the initial weed control.
Compared to previous attempts with straight turnips, the Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed provided a far superior and more reliable late-season food source. The diversity of the blend likely contributed to its success, providing a mix of forage options that appealed to deer throughout the winter months.
Breaking Down the Features of Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb.
Specifications
The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb. features a blend of brassica species specifically selected for late-season attraction and cold tolerance. While the exact ratio of each species is proprietary, the mix typically includes varieties of turnips, rape, kale, and radishes. This blend ensures a diverse range of palatability and maturity rates, extending the period of attraction.
The 12 lb. bag is designed to plant approximately 1.5 acres, providing ample coverage for a significant food plot. The seeds are coated with a proprietary treatment to enhance germination and seedling vigor. This is important for getting a strong start, especially in potentially harsh fall conditions.
The brassica blend is known for its high protein and carbohydrate content, providing deer with essential nutrients during the critical winter months. The Whitetail Institute focuses on developing seed blends that are both highly attractive and nutritionally beneficial to deer. This blend’s palatability increases after the first frost, when other food sources diminish.
Performance & Functionality
The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed performs exceptionally well as a late-season deer attractant. The brassicas germinate quickly, establish strong root systems, and provide a consistent food source throughout the winter. The blend’s varied maturity rates ensure that some plants remain palatable even as others are heavily browsed.
The strength lies in its cold tolerance and the increasing palatability after frost. A weakness could be its reliance on brassicas, which some deer populations may not initially favor. The seed blend significantly exceeded my expectations, providing a reliable and attractive food source when other options were scarce.
Design & Ergonomics
The seed blend is designed for ease of use, requiring minimal specialized equipment for planting. The seed coating improves handling and distribution. The blend’s diverse composition contributes to its overall resilience and adaptability to various soil conditions.
The user-friendly design simplifies the planting process. The clear instructions on the bag make it easy to determine the appropriate seeding rate and planting depth. There is a slight learning curve for new users who are unfamiliar with brassica management, but the Whitetail Institute provides ample resources and support.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wintergreens plot is designed to last throughout the late hunting season and into the early winter months. The cold-tolerant brassicas can withstand freezing temperatures and snow cover, providing a consistent food source for deer. Proper soil preparation and weed control are essential for maximizing the plot’s longevity.
The plot requires minimal maintenance beyond the initial planting and weed control. Occasional fertilization can boost growth and improve palatability, but it is not strictly necessary. The Whitetail Institute’s reputation for quality seed ensures a high germination rate and reduces the risk of crop failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed does not come with any specific accessories, but it can be supplemented with various soil amendments and fertilizers to enhance growth. The blend is compatible with a wide range of herbicides for weed control. There are no specific customization options for the seed blend itself, but users can adjust the seeding rate and planting depth to suit their specific soil conditions and management practices.
The product works well with common fertilizers. It is also compatible with various soil testing kits for pre-planting assessment. Additional Whitetail Institute products, such as soil conditioners and attractants, can further enhance the plot’s effectiveness.
Pros and Cons of Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb.
Pros
- Highly attractive to deer, especially during the late season when other food sources are scarce.
- Cold-tolerant blend that can withstand freezing temperatures and snow cover.
- Easy to plant and maintain, requiring minimal specialized equipment.
- Provides essential nutrients for deer during the critical winter months.
- Increases in palatability after the first frost, further enhancing its late-season effectiveness.
Cons
- Initial establishment can be challenging if soil conditions are unfavorable or weed competition is severe.
- Some deer populations may not initially favor brassicas, requiring time for them to adapt to the new food source.
Who Should Buy Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb.?
The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed is perfect for hunters and land managers seeking a reliable and attractive late-season food source for deer. It is well-suited for those with experience in food plot management, but also accessible to beginners who are willing to follow instructions and invest in proper soil preparation. This product is especially beneficial for landowners in regions with harsh winters and limited natural forage.
Those who should skip this product are individuals with extremely poor soil conditions or those unwilling to invest in basic soil amendments. Also those who live in areas where deer populations strongly avoid brassicas might want to explore different options. A soil test is crucial before planting!
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality seed spreader is essential for even distribution. Also, a soil testing kit, lime, and fertilizer are crucial for optimizing soil conditions and maximizing the plot’s success.
Conclusion on Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb.
The Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed 12 lb. has proven to be a valuable addition to my food plot strategy, providing a consistent and attractive food source for deer during the challenging late-season months. The blend’s cold tolerance, increasing palatability after frost, and ease of use make it a standout product in the competitive food plot market.
The price is justified by the seed quality and the resulting deer attraction. This product is a valuable tool for hunters looking to improve their late-season success.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Whitetail Institute Wintergreens Seed to anyone seeking a reliable and effective late-season deer attractant. Invest in your land, invest in your hunting success, and give this seed blend a try. You won’t be disappointed!