Location matters when it comes to food plots. What crushes it in the South might struggle in the Midwest, and what works in the Northeast won’t always thrive out West. Let’s break down what’s working across different regions and learn from each other’s experiences. THE SOUTH (Southeast/Gulf States) Climate: Long growing season, hot summers, mild winters Top Performers: • Clover (Ladino, crimson, arrowleaf) - year-round staple • Chicory - drought tolerant, deep taproot • Iron clay peas - summer protein powerhouse • Brassicas (turnips, radishes) - late season attraction • Winter rye and oats - cool season standards THE MIDWEST (Corn Belt) Climate: Four distinct seasons, cold winters, variable rainfall Top Performers: • Soybeans (standing or forage varieties) - summer staple • Corn - high carbs for fall/winter • Turnips and sugar beets - cold hardy brassicas • Winter wheat and cereal rye - early spring green-up • Clover blends - durable perennials THE NORTHEAST (New England/Mid-Atlantic) Climate: Cold winters, moderate summers, acidic soils common Top Performers: • White clover - handles shade and cooler temps • Brassicas - love the cool weather • Austrian winter peas - cold tolerant legume • Oats and wheat - reliable cool season annuals • Chicory - perennial that deer hammer THE WEST (Mountains/Plains) Climate: Varies dramatically - altitude matters, often drier Top Performers: • Alfalfa - drought tolerant once established • Clover blends - with irrigation in dry areas • Peas (Austrian, forage) - cool season protein • Rape and kale - brassicas for elk and deer • Native forbs - work with local conditions THE SOUTH-CENTRAL (Texas/Oklahoma) Climate: Hot, dry summers, mild winters, variable rainfall Top Performers: • Lablab (hyacinth bean) - heat and drought tolerant • Iron clay peas - thrives in heat • Oats - fall/winter standard • Brassicas - winter attraction • Annual ryegrass - cool season favorite LET’S SHARE KNOWLEDGE: • What region do you hunt?