Utilization based on game camera survey on this crop choice + evidence of use
Growth Results
This plot was excavated during the summer of 2015 and planted that same fall. It came up better than expected for that year but I still had drainage problems and needed more soil amendments. Both of those projects were completed this year and it made a big difference. The plot was outstanding in all regards with explosive, lush growth, and giant bulbs from our radishes and turnips. On a scale of 1 to 10 I'd give the plot a solid 9 for plot growth and results. Couldn't be happier.
Activity Results
Activity started out slow despite an early planting (for brassicas) on August 5th. By mid September the plot was drawing deer - primarily due to the 100lbs of Austrian Peas. By October, the radishes were getting hammered followed by the turnips a little later. We had greens into December and at that time the deer activity skyrocketed. January saw nonstop action before snowfall reached 4 feet in early February and the deer could no longer reach the crops.
Comments
This plot is our biggest, coming in around 2.5 - 3 acres. It is also the deepest into the property at the edge of our sanctuary. On December 3rd I watched our new number one buck breed a doe within easy rifle shot of my archery blind. We hunted there several times and saw multiple deer every time out. I have a little more drainage work to do but it's very close to ideal at this point.