The Antler King Chicory 1lb Made a Bold First Impression
The Antler King Chicory 1lb promises a perennial food source for whitetail deer, and as a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. For years, I’ve tinkered with food plots, trying different seed mixes and strategies to attract and hold deer on properties I manage. This particular product caught my eye with its claim of being drought-tolerant and adaptable to various soil conditions, potentially offering a low-maintenance, high-protein food source.
My main goal was to establish a reliable, long-term food plot that required minimal intervention. I was tired of annual plantings that demanded constant attention and were susceptible to weather fluctuations. Upon receiving the Antler King Chicory 1lb, I immediately noted the professional packaging. The bag felt substantial, and the information was clear and concise.
I considered several other options, including clover blends and other chicory varieties. However, the Antler King brand’s reputation and the specific claims about this chicory’s protein content (15-30%) swayed my decision. It seemed like the best bet for promoting both body and antler growth, a key factor in attracting mature bucks. Initially, I was optimistic. I felt like this could solve some recurring issues in plot maintenance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Antler King Chicory 1lb to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test site was a small, previously unused area of approximately one-quarter acre on a property in central Wisconsin. The soil was relatively poor, with a slightly acidic pH, and the area received partial sunlight. I prepped the ground as best I could with a disk, aiming for a reasonably fine seedbed. Sowing the Antler King Chicory 1lb was straightforward.
I spread the seed by hand, followed by light raking to ensure good soil contact. We experienced a moderate amount of rainfall in the weeks following planting, which was beneficial. Within a week, small chicory seedlings began to emerge. The conditions were slightly challenging, with limited sunlight and the slightly acidic soil.
The first few weeks saw slow growth, slower than anticipated. Despite the slow start, the chicory persevered. There were no major issues initially, although the area closer to the tree line struggled more due to lack of sunlight.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next several months, the Antler King Chicory 1lb gradually established itself. The plants became more robust, and the plot started to fill in. After the first hard frost, the chicory went dormant, as expected.
Come spring, I was eager to see if the perennial promise held true. To my delight, the chicory emerged strong and green, exceeding my expectations. The durability proved excellent as the chicory showed remarkable resilience. It survived multiple grazing sessions by deer and thrived despite a relatively dry summer.
Maintenance was minimal. I mowed the plot once in mid-summer to encourage new growth and control weed encroachment. Compared to annual food plots, this was a significant improvement. This chicory outperformed annual plantings with its minimal maintenance requirements and resilience.
Breaking Down the Features of Antler King Chicory 1lb
Specifications
The Antler King Chicory 1lb is a cool-season perennial forage designed specifically for attracting and nourishing whitetail deer. Its drought tolerance is one of its key features, making it suitable for areas with unpredictable rainfall. The product is designed to adapt to a range of soil conditions and has a pH tolerance of 6.0-7.0.
It is intended for planting in full sun or mostly sunny areas and can be planted either as a stand-alone crop or mixed with other forages. The seed comes in a 1lb bag, sufficient to cover approximately one-quarter to one-half acre depending on the planting method and desired density. The nutritional value is high, with leafy forage offering 15-30% protein content. This promotes healthy deer growth and antler development.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of Antler King Chicory 1lb is to provide a consistent and nutritious food source for deer. It excels in this role, particularly during the late summer and fall when other forage options may be scarce. The chicory attracts deer and holds them on the property.
The product’s drought tolerance is a major strength, as it continues to provide forage even during dry spells. Its ability to adapt to different soil types is also a significant advantage. Some areas that typically struggle with clover or alfalfa proved successful with this chicory. The main weakness is that it requires at least partial sunlight to thrive. Heavily shaded areas will likely not support vigorous growth. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a perennial food plot option.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and effective. It is intended for easy broadcast seeding and requires minimal soil preparation. The bag is resealable, which is a practical touch for storing unused seed.
The Antler King Chicory 1lb is simple to use, and most landowners will find it easy to establish a plot with minimal effort. There isn’t a steep learning curve. Even someone with limited experience in food plots can achieve success.
Durability & Maintenance
As a perennial, the Antler King Chicory 1lb is designed to last for several years with proper management. With appropriate care, the chicory will persist for 3-5 years, possibly longer. Maintenance involves occasional mowing to control weeds and promote new growth.
The chicory is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. Minimal effort is required to keep the plot healthy and productive. Compared to annual crops, the long-term value and reduced maintenance are significant advantages.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Antler King Chicory 1lb doesn’t come with specific accessories. It is designed to be used as a stand-alone product. However, it can be mixed with other seed blends, such as clover or cereal grains, to create a more diverse food plot.
Many hunters prefer to mix it with a small amount of oats or wheat for initial attraction. The seed is compatible with most standard seed spreaders. This adds versatility to the planting process.
Pros and Cons of Antler King Chicory 1lb
Pros
- Drought Tolerant: Provides a consistent food source even in dry conditions.
- Perennial: Comes back year after year, reducing the need for annual planting.
- High Protein Content: Promotes healthy deer growth and antler development (15-30%).
- Easy to Establish: Simple to plant and requires minimal soil preparation.
- Adaptable: Tolerant of various soil conditions and pH levels.
Cons
- Requires at least partial sunlight.
- Slow initial growth can be frustrating.
Who Should Buy Antler King Chicory 1lb?
The Antler King Chicory 1lb is perfect for hunters and landowners looking for a low-maintenance, long-term food plot solution. It’s ideal for those in areas with variable rainfall or less-than-ideal soil conditions. Anyone seeking to enhance deer nutrition and antler growth will also benefit.
This product might not be the best choice for landowners with heavily shaded properties or those seeking immediate results. Instant gratification is not an option with perennials. A soil test to determine pH is a must-have accessory to optimize planting success.
Conclusion on Antler King Chicory 1lb
Overall, the Antler King Chicory 1lb proves to be a worthwhile investment for those serious about attracting and sustaining whitetail deer. Its durability, drought tolerance, and high protein content make it a standout product in the crowded food plot market. For only $8.99, the value proposition is very compelling.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone seeking a reliable, perennial food source. The initial slow growth is a small price to pay for years of consistent performance. If you’re looking to establish a durable and effective food plot, the Antler King Chicory 1lb is a great place to start. Give it a try, and watch your deer thrive!