Forbs are an often-overlooked yet important part of a deer’s diet, providing essential nutrients that support their health and development. While woody browse and mast crops receive significant attention in wildlife management, forbs are a crucial food source, particularly during the warmer months. These diverse plants contribute significantly to the overall well-being of deer populations.
What Exactly Are Forbs?
Forbs are herbaceous flowering plants that are not grasses, sedges, or rushes, and they do not develop woody stems. They are often characterized by their broad leaves and soft stems, distinguishing them from the narrow-leaved grasses and the rigid structure of trees and shrubs. The term “forb” is derived from the Greek word “phorbḗ,” meaning “pasture” or “fodder”.
Forbs can be annuals, growing from seed each year, or perennials, sprouting from established root systems. They encompass a wide variety of plants, commonly referred to as wildflowers or even weeds, offering significant value to deer. Unlike grasses, which have elongated, flat blades, forbs typically feature more visible flowers.
Why Forbs Are Essential for Deer Health
Forbs are highly valued in a deer’s diet due to their concentrated nutritional content, surpassing that of many grasses and woody browse. These plants are typically rich in protein, which is fundamental for muscle development and overall body growth in deer. The protein content in forbs can be superior to commercial feed supplements, offering a more natural and cost-effective nutritional source.
Beyond protein, forbs provide easily digestible energy and essential minerals, including calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are important for antler development in bucks, supporting bone tissue growth. They also play a role in milk production for lactating does, ensuring fawns receive necessary nutrients for early growth and survival. The high digestibility of forbs means deer efficiently extract these nutrients, contributing to robust body condition and a healthy immune system.
Common Forbs Deer Seek Out
Deer consume a wide variety of forbs that offer nutritional benefits. Clovers, such as white and red clover, are palatable legumes known for their high protein content and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching the habitat. Chicory, a deep-rooted perennial, provides excellent forage during drier periods and is rich in minerals.
Plantain species are eaten by deer and supply vitamins and minerals. Ragweed is a prolific annual forb that deer consume. Goldenrod and various aster species contribute to the deer’s diet, especially when other preferred forages are scarce. Vetch, another legume, offers high protein and is often found in disturbed areas.
Encouraging Forb Growth for Deer Habitat
Promoting the growth of beneficial forbs is an effective strategy for improving deer habitat and overall herd health. Selective timber harvesting creates canopy openings, allowing more sunlight to reach the forest floor and stimulate forb growth. Prescribed burning is another tool, as fire reduces competition from woody vegetation and grasses, while stimulating forb seed germination.
Disking, a soil disturbance technique, encourages forb establishment by exposing bare soil, which is conducive to seed germination. Planting specific forb mixes in food plots provides a reliable and concentrated food source for deer, especially during nutritional stress. Controlling invasive plant species that outcompete native forbs is important for maintaining a diverse and nutritious plant community.