What to plant in a non used field?

iplumb · May 3, 2009

Hi Guys, We have a field that is approx 2 acres. Just trying to get some ideas on what to grow out there? Thinking something like sunflowers. Something that will attract wildlife.

Also is there a cheap pasture grass for shaded areas? Looking for some thing cheap for around our bridge in the woods and all of our walking an ATV Trials. I don't mind mowing them. Thanks

Oleozz · May 3, 2009

You might want to try some warm season grasses, makes good cover for the wildlife but is expensive and doesn't like any competition. Buckwheat might be another option, easy to grow and the deer and turkey love it but has to be replanted yearly. Maybe a field of timothy with several feed strips interspersed throughout the area.

Egon · May 3, 2009

What you plant may depend on the climatic zone you live in.

iplumb · May 3, 2009

MICHIGAN

Egon · May 3, 2009

On the field the next question is about the Deer access to the area. If there are deer anything like sunflowers will have the heads eaten shortly after they form. The deer do like buckwheat as well as winter rye but again these may depend on the amount of preparation work you are willing to do.

The rye will remain to grow into a nice crop.

whistlepig · May 3, 2009

iplumb said:
Hi Guys, We have a field that is approx 2 acres. Just trying to get some ideas on what to grow out there? Thinking something like sunflowers. Something that will attract wildlife.

Also is there a cheap pasture grass for shaded areas? Looking for some thing cheap for around our bridge in the woods and all of our walking an ATV Trials. I don't mind mowing them. Thanks

Ladino Clover.

nmu98 · May 4, 2009

Clover is easy to grow and will add nitrogen to the soil. Alfalfa is a real good crop since it will also add nitrogen and the roots will goo deep into the soil and help to keep it loose. Both are easy to get rid of, but will last for some time (6 to 7 years). You would not have to cut either one if you did not want.

Grass seems to take over in fields and if you plan to put crops in again, it is harder to get rid of. even after spraying round up, it will pop back up after you work the ground and plant.