Tall grass prairie has a myriad of benefits in planting. Follow along, and I will let you know the greatest benefits for my land. Many of the benefits are habitat related. Tall grass prairie is a great soil builder and stabilizer, as it provides large amounts of organic matter. This cover also helps to slow flooding and eliminate erosion on sites.

The first time I planted tall grass prairie I was amazed at how the deer dug at it in the spring. I have since provided additional food sources on my 40 acres and the attraction has been spread out. The second year benefits included a diversity of wildlife. The wildlife populations expanded exponentially to songbirds, grasshoppers, pheasants, turkeys, snakes, hawks, coyotes, and bobcats. The second year also brought with it an explosion of grasses and forbs.

The wildflowers provided color from spring until fall. Studies of captive deer show a diverse diet is key to antler growth.

The third year after establishment provided a denser grass component. The three typical grasses in these mixes include Indian grass, big blue stem, and switchgrass. Tall grass prairie does not grow as thick as switchgrass. I utilized this planting around my food plots, while my switchgrass bedding plantings are located between my food plots and woods. This scenario allows me access into a stand or two without worrying about bedded deer being near my stands but still allows my food plots to be screened from my neighbor’s view.

Now that I've discussed a few benefits of tall grass prairie, what do I consider its greatest benefit? I can spend an almost unlimited budget on my whitetail passion. Let me explain: I am first and foremost a family man. I have a beautiful wife and 2 kids, age 10 and 8. The kids and I pick wildflower bouquets for their mom on a weekly basis. We go for daily walks in the summer around the property, and we focus on the prairie. I did not know it at the time, but when I planted an acre of prairie I not only brought joy to my family, but I released having to worry about future projects on the farm. In fact, I plan on planting a little ¼ acre planting up near the house so my wife can see the benefit of what we are doing every single day. By the way, did I mention my wife is a vegetarian? Did I also mention that the first planting required renting a tractor and tiller, I now own a 38-horse tractor with brush hog, tiller, disc, and loader. Guys, it is amazing the benefits that tall grass prairie has meant for my property.

**I purchased my seed mix from Pheasants Forever. They are going to get you a local genotype seed (native local seed) and their prices can’t be beat. As an added benefit, their money stays in local chapters. I currently purchase most of my habitat related seed from them, excluding food plot seed. Pheasants Forever also provides some food plot seed free of charge if you are a member.