I have 160 acres in western South Dakota that is surrounded by large ranches. My goal is to make my small piece of ground desirable enough to attract more game in from the neighboring properties. We have 90 acres in alfalfa and typically get only one cutting, so it usually grows back enough to provide cover for the local huns and sharptails as well as forage for the whitetails and muleys in the neighborhood. We've also planted four small to medium-sized shelterbelts with primarily juniper, along with with some pine, silverberry, and locust. We are currently in the process of adding fruit trees and have planted some Harbin McDermmand pear, American and Prairie Red plum, a few Liberty apples, and midwest crabapple. My question is what other fruit trees should we try? We get around fifteen inches of moisture per year. Any apple species need to be cedar rust resistant given the number of junipers on the property. I'm looking at some Dolgo crabapple as they are rust resistant and the apples don't drop until November which coincides with our deer season. The Midwest crabapples "raisin" onto the trees and are small enough that grouse can pick them off. I can also get Red Splendor crabapples from the state, as well as apricot and cherry. Looking to provide the right combination of cross pollinators for the apples, and overall a smorgasboard of fruit and berries that will keep the grouse and deer coming back for more.
Thanks for any advice any of you can send my way.
Thanks for any advice any of you can send my way.