What Do I Feed Deer in the Growing Season?

From March through August, deer need protein first, then fat. A growing-season feed around 18% protein, kept steady at a few sites, does more for antler size and fawn survival than anything you'll put out in October. Below: what to feed, why, and how to set up the sites.

When spring green-up begins and bucks shed their antlers, it signals the start of the growing season - arguably the most important time of year for deer nutrition. From March through August, your feeding strategy directly impacts antler size, fawn survival, and long-term herd health.

Why Growing Season Nutrition Matters

During spring and summer, deer are under anabolic pressure - their bodies are building, not just maintaining.

Bucks are growing new antlers (which can be up to 50% protein by dry weight)
Does are gestating or nursing fawns
Fawns are developing bones, tissue, and immune systems
All deer are recovering from the caloric drain of winter

Failing to provide proper feed now can stunt antler growth, reduce fawn survival, and increase disease vulnerability.

What to Feed Deer in the Growing Season

1. High-Protein Feed for Antler Growth

Antlers grow rapidly in summer, and bucks need a minimum of 16% protein - ideally closer to 20% - to maximize potential.

Top Protein Sources:

Soybeans (roasted or extruded)
Protein pellets (deer-specific formulas)
Alfalfa meal or cubes
Legume-based feeds (peas, clover, lablab)

Look for blends that also include calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals for optimal antler development.

For a detailed comparison, see When to Feed Deer Protein.

2. Mineral Supplements for Antler & Fawn Support

Spring and summer are peak times for mineral consumption - especially:

Calcium & phosphorus (for antlers, bone growth)
Magnesium, copper, zinc (tissue and immune support)
Salt (helps with mineral absorption and encourages site use)

Use loose mineral or blocks in shaded, near-water areas. Many high-performing mineral products are molasses-based for better palatability.

3. Fat & Energy Support

Though protein is king, don’t neglect energy - especially for lactating does and hard-growing bucks.

Add:

Rice bran
Sweet feed blends
Molasses-based toppers

These help maintain weight during growth and reduce pressure on native forage.

Should You Plant Summer Food Plots?

Absolutely. Summer food plots can diversify your nutrition program and reduce feed costs. Top choices include:

Clover – Perennial, high in protein
Lablab or soybeans – Great for protein and tonnage
Alfalfa – Excellent browse for does and fawns
Chicory or cowpeas – Drought-resistant, nutrient-dense

Bonus: Pair plots with summer attractants to boost early site visits.

Growing Season Feeding Schedule

To stay consistent and effective:

Month	Focus	Feed Type
March	Post-winter recovery	Pellets (12–14% protein) + loose mineral
April–June	Peak antler & fawn development	Pellets (16–20% protein) + mineral + forage
July–August	Maintain gains before rut prep	Protein feed + molasses topper + salt block

Where to Place Feed in Summer

Shade – Prevents spoilage and increases daytime activity
Near water – Deer need to hydrate more in heat
Edge of cover – Keep it close to bedding for less pressure
Away from major pressure zones – Don’t invite trouble near stand locations

Use gravity feeders or troughs to minimize noise and spook risk.

Final Thoughts: Summer Feed, Fall Success

What you feed in the growing season determines what you’ll see in your trail cam photos come fall. From antler beams to fawn survival rates, summer is when next season’s trophies — and herd health — are made.

If you want to:

Grow bigger bucks
Boost fawn survival
Retain your local herd…

Then growing season feeding is non-negotiable.

Ready to feed for fall? Read What to Feed Deer in the Post-Rut.
Need to fine-tune for hunting prep? Check out What to Feed Deer During Hunting Season.