Seed Sources

[Walleyeguy13]

I've read a couple of discussions here regarding seed. It does seem to me that BOB seed is pretty expensive... even if you are only working a few acres of plots. For those who simply mix their own... what are your go-to sources for non-BOB seeds? Specifically, clover and winter rye.

 

[omicron1792]

I've read a couple of discussions here regarding seed. It does seem to me that BOB seed is pretty expensive... even if you are only working a few acres of plots. For those who simply mix their own... what are your go-to sources for non-BOB seeds? Specifically, clover and winter rye.

Clover can be ordered from alot of places like seed world, Hancock, and seed ranch. Generally need smaller amount so shipping not bad for a bag or two.

Rye and grains are cheaper if bought at local seed and feed so you don’t pay shipping.

 

[Telemark]

I buy from Merit Seed in Ohio. They have good prices and good shipping. I have purchased specialty seeds from Green Cover, but they are more expensive.

Large bags of rye or soybeans I would try to source locally because the shipping will be expensive no matter who you order from.

 

[RGrizzzz]

Cereal grains locally and smaller quantity stuff usually comes from Green Cover. I did just order some clover from Whitetail Institute. 16 lbs was $99 shipped before taxes. That's not terrible and plenty for my first seeding.

 

[Stubborn1VT]

I've used many, but my current go-tos for clover are Merit Seed or Outside Pride. In the past I've used Deer Creek or Hancock.

I think Whitetail Institute is too expensive in general, but I have always been impressed with their quality.

 

[omicron1792]

Cereal grains locally and smaller quantity stuff usually comes from Green Cover. I did just order some clover from Whitetail Institute. 16 lbs was $99 shipped before taxes. That's not terrible and plenty for my first seeding.

Their imperial clover is really good stuff.

 

[RGrizzzz]

I think Whitetail Institute is too expensive in general, but I have always been impressed with their quality.

Agreed. With the black friday special, their clover is down to a little over $6/lb. That's on par or cheaper than just about everywhere for white clover. I've got some Durana that's been going for a long time. 7ish years, I'd guess. The more premium stuff can be worth a little more money.

 

[Feelslikefar.]

I've used many, but my current go-tos for clover are Merit Seed or Outside Pride.

I don't buy a lot, but for years I bought clover seed off Amazon, not cheap. Started buying Pasture Booster from tractor supply because it was usually available on my last minute's notice trips north. Bought a bunch from the "boutique brands", again because it was available. (WT Institute, Domain etc). Dealing with Outside Pride was awful. They sent the wrong stuff, which they told be to return. I did, they sent the same wrong stuff. Rinse, repeat... they sent the same wrong stuff a third time. Finally gave up and got a refund. No more for you.

Since then I've just been ordering from Merit. Comes quick, price is as good or better than anything else I bought. I like dealing with them, plus I like being able to go back and look at old orders to remember what the heck I bought last time.

 

[Hoytvectrix]

I am a fan of Welter Seed and Albert Lea Seed. I am not a fan of paying for shipping so I try to coordinate orders with when I will be driving by either of those.

Don't be afraid of reaching out to some local smaller dealers. They can often custom order seed from wholesalers and it can work out to be worth it from not just a convenience but also price standpoint. You would be surprised with how few producers supply most of what we are all looking for in terms of named cultivars or varieties. Just do your homework now and make a few calls.

There are very few instances where VNS is worth it. You generally get what you pay for, and if one of the bigger more popular wildlife seed vendors doesn't have a cultivar listed in a mix it is because they are adding in VNS to keep the price point down. Sometimes seed availability is limited or they want a certain price point for a blend or mixture. Choose your battles, but I wouldn't settle for a convenience.

 

[bigboreblr]

Paying $20 for 50lb bag of seed rye locally. I mix in some feed oats too. Always germinated nomatter whose o bought. About 16-20lb a bag.

Durana is worth it, so is patriot.

 

[bigboreblr]

Got to watch coatings on clover. Seen 52% seed coating on a bag of crimson I bought.

0 Is best 30 Is below average. Assume 40