February 20, 2026

Beginner's Guide to Mast Tree Planting w/ Ryan Haines

1 hour 7 minutes

Unlock the secret to transforming your land into a deer magnet and wildlife haven with expert tree planting strategies you need to hear now. Whether you're new to habitat management or looking to refine your approach, this episode reveals the foundational principles that can make or break your success; from timing and soil prep to selecting the right tree species that thrive in your zone.

Discover why planting in spring outperforms fall, how to choose trees that attract deer year-round, and the underestimated power of soft mast for consistent food sources. Ryan Haynes of Blue Hill Wildlife Nursery breaks down regional challenges, soil preparation, and the critical distinctions between shade-tolerant and sun-loving trees; demystifying complex concepts so even a beginner can plan with confidence. We break down practical tips on soil testing, protective measures to ensure your investment grows, and how diversifying mast species can provide a continuous, reliable food supply for deer and other wildlife through all seasons.

Takeaways

Wildlife Planting Value: Planting for wildlife is about creating a diverse ecosystem that sustains deer year-round.

Tree Success Factors: Success depends on selection, planting techniques, and protection, not just soil or timing.

Challenging Terrain Planting: Improve soil and manage sites to plant in rocky areas, overcoming landscape challenges.

Planting Timing: Focus on tree dormancy and readiness rather than specific seasons for planting.

Mast Management: Use diverse species with staggered fruiting to maximize mast availability, not year-round production.

Grafting Benefits: Propagate high-yield, disease-resistant trees from successful wild sources.

Integrated Habitat Management: Combine planting, protection, soil health, and timing for effective habitat management.

Species Bloom Timing: Use bloom and ripening schedules to maximize deer forage through diversity.

Root Health & Protection: Healthy roots and protection enhance tree development and habitat reliability.

Strategic Year-Round Planting: Plant early, mid, and late-season trees to ensure year-round food for deer.

Please Show Our Supporters Some Love!!

NestedTreestands.com code WT10

VitalizeSeed.Com

IntegratedHabitatSolutions.Com

ToothOfTheArrow.Com code WT10

Truth-stiX Custom Arrows - WingAndTailOutdoors.Com

Firenock.com

RackGetterScents.Net

HuntArsenal.Com

Silver Birch Archery

Hunters Gallery

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

...more

View all episodes

By Sportsmen's Empire