Be Prepared = Food Plot Success
By W. Carroll Johnson, III, PhD
I am an Eagle Scout. Even after 50 years, the Boy Scout motto—“Be Prepared”—still echoes in my mind. At its core, being prepared means knowing what to do and acting in a timely manner. In food plot management, timeliness isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Winter: The Season of Preparation
The quiet lull of winter is the perfect time to plan ahead. This is when smart managers create a punch list of food plot tasks for the year and map out when each one should be completed. Winter also offers the luxury of time—time to purchase supplies without the pressure of looming deadlines. Stocking up early ensures you’re ready when conditions align. In short: be prepared.
Frost-Seeding: A Timely Opportunity
One of the most important late-winter tasks is frost-seeding clover. This practice supplements existing stands and can even rescue plots stressed by drought. If you live in a region where soil freezes or snowfall is common, frost-seeding is a proven way to refresh your clover stand.
- Timing: Late February through March
- Method: Sow Imperial Whitetail Clover seed directly onto frozen soil or a light layer of snow
- Process: As the soil freezes and thaws—or as snow melts—the seed works its way into the soil naturally
The beauty of frost-seeding is its simplicity. It’s a low-risk, high-reward practice that fits perfectly into the winter lull. But success hinges on one thing: having seed on hand when conditions are right. Waiting until the last minute risks missing the window. If frost-seeding is on your list, purchase seed in advance. Be prepared.
A Motto That Resonates
Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scouts, wasn’t a food plotter. Yet the phrase he coined—“Be Prepared”—rings true in this field. Whether it’s scouting or food plot management, preparation is the difference between success and missed opportunity.
Final Thought
Food plots thrive on foresight. Winter is your chance to plan, purchase, and position yourself for success. When the frost arrives, you’ll be ready—not scrambling. And that’s the essence of being prepared.
