News

Why Seed Is Only One Part of a Successful Food Plot
Seed is only one part of a successful food plot. The same bag can perform very differently on two properties because establishment depends on soil, weeds, sunlight, preparation, planting depth, seed-to-soil contact, moisture, and timing.1. Soil conditionsA soil test identifies pH and nutrient needs. Lime and fertilizer should be based on the report and crop requirements, not a generic guess. Major pH corrections may need to begin well before planting.2. Existing vegetation and weedsCompetition can overwhelm new seedlings. The right approach depends on current vegetation, desired crop, timing, and herbicide... Read more...
Fall Food Plot Timing: Work Backward From the First Frost
For many fall blends, work backward from the product's specified establishment window; for example, CRUSH The Perfect 10 recommends planting six to eight weeks before the average first frost. That window gives young plants time to establish before cold weather changes growth and forage preference.Step 1: Find the local frost dateWestern Pennsylvania does not have one universal frost date. Elevation, slope position, and county matter. Use a reputable local forecast or frost-date tool for the property itself, not a date borrowed from another state or a seed advertisement.Step 2: Check... Read more...
What a Soil Test Tells You Before You Plant
A soil test tells you whether the plot's pH and nutrient levels support the crop you want to establish—and what lime or fertilizer may be needed before planting. It replaces guesswork with field-specific recommendations.What the report measuresA standard laboratory soil test commonly reports pH and plant-available nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. The report then provides lime and fertilizer recommendations for the crop or use you selected on the submission form.Why pH mattersSoil pH affects nutrient availability and crop performance. Clover, alfalfa, brassicas, and cereal grains do not... Read more...
How to Choose Food Plot Seed for a Western Pennsylvania Property
The best food plot seed is the blend that fits your planting window, sunlight, acreage, soil conditions, and goal—not simply the blend with the longest ingredient list. For Western Pennsylvania landowners, those five decisions narrow the field quickly and reduce the risk of a thin or poorly timed stand.1. Start with your planting windowMany fall blends—such as CRUSH The Perfect 10—recommend planting six to eight weeks before the average first frost. Verify the exact product because planting windows differ. Some faster-establishing blends may allow later planting, while clover and other... Read more...