Written by: Pierce Young

So, you’ve gotten your soil tests results, now what? 

Most people that plant food plots are probably used to applying all nutrients in a fertilizer blend together at the same time as planting, but there is a better way. 

Food plots will benefit from applying the different nutrients (N-P-K) separately at different times. 

When deciding on what nutrients a food plot needs, look to your soil test. That’s what it’s for. You may not need all, or any nutrients, depending on the soil quality. 

Nitrogen (N)

  • This nutrient is the building block for growing stems and leaves. It is not needed until the plants germinate, and it is best to split the recommendation to include a second application 30-45 days after the first. 
  • Legumes, such as clovers, soybeans, and jointvetch do not need nitrogen fertilizer if they were inoculated and will create their own.
  • Symptoms of low nitrogen are yellow leaves, or short stems. 
  • Fertilizer example: Urea, or 46-0-0

Phosphorus (P)

  • This nutrient is needed for developing roots. 
  • It is best to apply at, or just before planting. 
  • Symptoms of low phosphorous are red or purple leaves, or leaves that twist
  • Fertilizer example: Triple Super Phosphate, or 0-46-0

Potassium (K)

  • This nutrient helps keeps roots healthy after they are established. 
  • Potassium can also help plants tolerate drought or other stress. 
  • It can be applied at, or just after planting. 
  • Symptoms of low potassium include lower leaves that have dead edges, or are wilting. 
  • Fertilizer example: Potash, or 0-0-60

For more food plot and wildlife management guidance visit  

www.mdwfp.com/wildlife-management-info