Spring PlantingpH 5.5–7.0 (ideal 6.0–6.5). More pH-tolerant than clover, though production increases with proper lime.

Chicory Food Plot Guide

Deep-rooted perennial that stays green in summer heat when other forages go dormant.

Seed Rate

lbs/acre

Fertilizer

300

lbs/acre (13-13-13)

Depth

⅛ to ¼ inch

Products

available

Overview

Chicory is a deep-rooted perennial forb that has become a food plot staple because it does what most other crops can't — stay green and palatable through the brutal heat of July and August. While clover wilts and cereal grains are long gone, chicory's deep taproot (which can reach 4+ feet) pulls moisture from deep in the soil profile, keeping leaves green and full of nutrition. A well-managed chicory plot can produce forage for 3-5 years and is often planted as a companion to white clover for a year-round food source. Varieties like QDMA-recommended Oasis and food-plot-specific cultivars offer improved palatability over wild chicory.

New to food plots? Read our beginner's guide for step-by-step planting instructions, or use the Chicory seed calculator to plan your plot.

Why Deer Love Chicory

Chicory runs 15-25% crude protein and is mineral-rich, providing calcium and phosphorus that contribute to antler growth and fawn development. Critically, chicory provides quality forage during the summer 'stress period' when does are nursing fawns and bucks are growing antlers — a window when most other food plot crops offer nothing. Deer learn where the chicory plots are and visit them repeatedly through summer.

Soil & Growing Conditions

Best Soil Types

Performs well in most soil types due to its deep taproot. Thrives in loam and clay-loam but will tolerate lighter soils better than clover because of its moisture-seeking root system.

Soil pH Range

5.5–7.0 (ideal 6.0–6.5). More pH-tolerant than clover, though production increases with proper lime.

Planting Depth

⅛ to ¼ inch. Small seed that needs good seed-to-soil contact.

Check our planting calendar for the best planting window in your state.

Planting Tips

1
Plant in spring after soil temperatures reach 50°F for best germination.
2
Mix with white clover for the ultimate year-round food plot — clover covers spring/fall, chicory fills the summer gap.
3
Chicory is slow to establish in the first month. Don't panic if your plot looks thin early on — give it 60 days.
4
Mow once in late spring to encourage branching and keep the plot from going to flower too early.
5
Apply 300 lbs/acre of 13-13-13 at planting, then topdress with nitrogen in year two and beyond.

These crops complement chicory in a food plot rotation or mix:

Clover (white)

A perennial favorite that provides year-round forage and thrives under heavy deer browse.

Alfalfa

Protein-rich perennial legume that produces multiple cuttings and attracts deer all season long.

Frequently Asked Questions

What soil type is best for chicory food plots?▾

Performs well in most soil types due to its deep taproot. Thrives in loam and clay-loam but will tolerate lighter soils better than clover because of its moisture-seeking root system. Ideal soil pH: 5.5–7.0 (ideal 6.0–6.5). More pH-tolerant than clover, though production increases with proper lime..

How deep should you plant chicory seed?▾

⅛ to ¼ inch. Small seed that needs good seed-to-soil contact.

How much chicory seed do you need per acre?▾

The recommended seeding rate for chicory is 5 lbs per acre. Apply 300 lbs/acre of 13-13-13 fertilizer.

Why do deer like chicory?▾

What are common mistakes when planting chicory food plots?▾

Giving up too early — chicory looks sparse for the first 4-6 weeks before the taproot develops. Patience pays off. Planting alone in large acreage — chicory works best as a companion crop mixed with clover or other perennials. Letting it go to flower unchecked — once chicory bolts and flowers, the leaves become tough and less palatable. Mow it. Ignoring weeds in the first year — chicory's slow start means weeds can crowd it out if not managed.

What crops grow well with chicory in a food plot?▾

Chicory pairs well with clover (white), alfalfa in a food plot rotation or mix.

Map Your Chicory Plot

Draw your food plot on satellite imagery, get seed recommendations, and plan your planting.

Open Property Map

Calculate Seed & Cost

Get exact chicory seed quantities, bag counts, and cost estimates for your plot size.

Seed Calculator