Episode #231 - Timing is Key: When to Plant Fall Plots

Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

Summary In this episode, Terry and Don discuss their recent trail camera findings and when to plant fall plots. They also touch on their thoughts about recent political events. Don shares his experience speaking at an event in Wisconsin and talks about the abundance of fawns he's seen on his trail cameras. They emphasize the importance of timing when planting fall plots and recommend backdating from the expected first frost. They also address a listener's question about dealing with reed canary grass in deer habitat. In this conversation, Don and Terry discuss topics related to deer hunting and land management. They cover subjects such as converting reeds canary grass sites, the effectiveness of mineral blocks, the challenges of getting products into major retail stores, the impact of EHD on deer populations, and their personal hunting and life goals. Don shares his goals of shooting a 180-inch buck on public land and two more bucks over 200 inches, while Terry emphasizes the importance of using his new business as a ministry and leaving a legacy for his children. They also address the misconception that Don only hunts big bucks on his special property. Keywords trail cameras, fall plots, planting, timing, reed canary grass, deer habitat, deer hunting, land management, reeds canary grass, mineral blocks, EHD, retail stores, hunting goals, life goals Takeaways Timing is crucial when planting fall plots, and it's important to backdate from the expected first frost. Planting fall plots too early can result in the plants becoming too mature and losing their palatability. Reed canary grass is a challenging grass to deal with in deer habitat, but burning it off and planting potted trees can help establish better vegetation. Spraying around the trees to keep the reed canary grass at bay is necessary for the trees to thrive. Observing the abundance of fawns on trail cameras can indicate a successful fawning season. Glyphosate and clethodim can be used to convert reeds canary grass sites into better quality deer cover. Mineral blocks like Trophy Rock may attract deer, but they do not provide the same nutritional benefits as products like Maximizer. Getting products into major retail stores like Amazon can be challenging due to the demand for high profit margins. The recovery of deer populations after an EHD outbreak can take several years, especially if hunting pressure remains high. Don's hunting goals include shooting a 180-inch buck on public land and two more bucks over 200 inches. Terry's life goals involve using his new business as a ministry and leaving a legacy for his children.