The Shot-plot Forage Attractant Made a Bold First Impression
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant, a promising mix of forage brassicas, immediately caught my attention. Developed to both supplement and attract deer, it offered a seemingly straightforward solution to enhancing my hunting plots. I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different attractants, so my curiosity was definitely piqued.
My primary problem was consistent deer presence on my established food plots. Existing clover and alfalfa were getting hammered, and I needed something to extend the season and draw deer in during the colder months. Shot-plot Forage Attractant promised quick growth and high palatability, qualities that aligned perfectly with my needs.
The 2.5-pound bag is a manageable size, easy to transport and handle. Upon opening, I observed a well-mixed assortment of seeds, indicating a consistent blend. The seeds appeared healthy and vibrant, suggesting good viability.
Compared to pre-mixed clover blends I’ve used in the past, Shot-plot Forage Attractant is solely focused on brassicas. This specialization is what drew me to it; I wanted a dedicated late-season attractant. Others often include grains, which are great, but not my immediate need.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The simplicity of the product combined with the promise of quick, palatable forage was intriguing. I was eager to see if the Manufacturer‘s claims held true in a real-world setting.
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 within a wooded area adjacent to a known deer bedding area. The soil was well-drained but somewhat poor, so I amended it with a balanced fertilizer before planting. I lightly disked the soil, broadcast the seed, and then cultipacked to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
The weather during the initial germination period was relatively dry, requiring me to irrigate the plot twice. Despite these conditions, the brassicas germinated quickly and established a solid stand within two weeks. Growth was impressive, with plants reaching over 12 inches in just over a month.
Using a cultipacker and following recommended fertilization guidelines was necessary for success. Without proper seed-to-soil contact and nutrients, I suspect the results would have been significantly less impressive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few months of growth, the Shot-plot Forage Attractant truly began to shine. The brassicas continued to grow vigorously, reaching well over 24 inches in height. Deer began to browse the plot heavily, particularly after the first frost.
The plants demonstrated excellent resilience, even withstanding consistent browsing pressure. New growth continued to emerge, replacing leaves that had been consumed. The plot remained attractive to deer throughout the late fall and early winter months.
One area for improvement would be hardiness. During a particularly cold snap, some of the leaves experienced die-back. This is understandable, but selecting even more cold-tolerant varieties within the brassica family would further enhance the product.
Breaking Down the Features of Shot-plot Forage Attractant
Specifications
- Type: Annual Forage Attractant. This defines the expected lifespan of the plants and their purpose of attracting deer.
- Composition: Forage Brassicas. These are known for their palatability and high nutritional value for deer.
- Planting Area: 2.5 lbs. plants 1/2 acre. This defines the seed density and area coverage per bag.
- Growth Rate: Over 24″ tall in about 45 days. Rapid growth is key for establishing a food source quickly.
- Palatability: Deer devour the mature Brassicas. This attractiveness increases as plants mature.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the effectiveness of the attractant. Quick growth means a quicker return on investment, while high palatability ensures deer are consistently drawn to the plot. The coverage area determines how much land can be treated per bag, affecting cost-effectiveness.
Performance & Functionality
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant excels at its primary task: attracting deer. The brassicas are incredibly palatable, and deer consistently browsed the plot, particularly after the first frost. The rapid growth rate allowed the plot to establish quickly, providing a food source within a relatively short timeframe.
While the product performs well, it does require proper site preparation and fertilization. Neglecting these steps will likely result in a less productive plot. Furthermore, weed control is crucial during the initial establishment phase to prevent competition with the brassicas.
Overall, the Shot-plot Forage Attractant met my expectations. It provided a reliable, palatable food source that consistently attracted deer.
Design & Ergonomics
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is fundamentally simple: a bag of seeds. There’s little to critique in terms of “design.” However, the seed mixture is well-blended and the packaging is straightforward, making it easy to handle and distribute.
One potential improvement would be including more detailed planting instructions directly on the bag. While the general guidelines are helpful, more specific information regarding optimal soil pH and fertilization rates would be beneficial.
The Manufacturer chose a simple, effective approach. It’s tough to improve much beyond that.
Durability & Maintenance
As an annual forage, the Shot-plot Forage Attractant is not intended to last for multiple seasons. However, the plants themselves are relatively durable and can withstand moderate browsing pressure. They continued to produce new growth even after significant foliage loss.
Maintenance primarily involves weed control during the establishment phase and potentially supplemental fertilization if nutrient deficiencies are observed. Over-grazing or exceptionally harsh weather could impact the plot’s longevity.
The product’s longevity depends on environmental factors, so management is key. Careful monitoring and supplemental care is best.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant itself doesn’t have “accessories.” Its effectiveness is largely determined by the user’s ability to prepare the soil and manage the plot. Soil testing kits, fertilizers, herbicides, and a cultipacker are useful complements.
Adding lime to adjust soil pH can dramatically improve nutrient availability and overall plant health. Selecting a compatible herbicide is essential for controlling weeds without harming the brassicas. Soil testing is crucial for customization.
There are no direct accessories, but smart stewardship is key. Understanding soil and using proper tools make a big difference.
Pros and Cons of Shot-plot Forage Attractant
Pros
- Rapid growth provides a quick food source for deer.
- Brassicas are highly palatable, consistently attracting deer.
- Easy to plant and manage with basic equipment.
- Cost-effective solution for enhancing food plots.
- Provides a valuable late-season food source when other forages are depleted.
Cons
- Requires proper soil preparation and fertilization for optimal results.
- Annual forage, requiring replanting each year.
- May be susceptible to heavy browsing pressure if deer populations are high.
Who Should Buy Shot-plot Forage Attractant?
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is perfect for hunters looking to enhance their food plots and attract deer. Land managers seeking a cost-effective way to provide a palatable, late-season food source for deer will benefit greatly. Anyone aiming to improve deer habitat and hunting success would also find this product valuable.
This product is not ideal for individuals who are unwilling to invest in proper soil preparation or maintenance. Those with extremely limited space or unfavorable soil conditions may find it challenging to establish a successful plot. Anyone expecting a “miracle” solution without putting in the necessary work should also avoid this product.
A soil testing kit is a must-have accessory. A cultipacker will significantly improve seed-to-soil contact. Also, a compatible herbicide for weed control is essential.
Conclusion on Shot-plot Forage Attractant
The Shot-plot Forage Attractant is a solid product that delivers on its promise of attracting deer. Its rapid growth rate and high palatability make it an effective tool for enhancing food plots. While proper soil preparation and maintenance are essential, the results are well worth the effort.
At $11.99 for a half-acre planting, the price is more than justified. Shot-plot Forage Attractant offers an affordable way to improve deer habitat and hunting success.
I would definitely recommend Shot-plot Forage Attractant to anyone looking to enhance their deer hunting experience. Give it a try, follow the instructions, and watch your deer population thrive! Plant your plot and see what deer activity you’ve been missing.