Eric
There certainly are cheaper routes to go when planting food plots. But in the scenario you mentioned with no soil test or improvement to soil fertility, I am not sure my answer is going to be the one you want to hear. Consider food plots to be an investment. The return on your investment will depend entirely on the effort, if you know what I mean. Until you amend the soil according to a soil sample, you could be throwing your money into the toilet!! I am familiar with Michigan and I have several friends that are avid plotters up there. For the most part, your soils are rich and well suited for growing plots. However, given the scenario in your post, I would recommend that you take a look at a long term perennial like Monster Mix. Monster Mix is a blend of clover and chicory that are relatively low maintenance and easy to grow. Once established, Monster Mix will be available to your deer herd longer throughout the 12 month cycle than anything else you can plant. Typically, you can expect clover to stay green and palatable throughout the year but once ground temperatures drop considerably in October, root activity will slow to a halt. Once ground temperatures warm in spring, the Monster Mix will once again pick up steam and explode once again. There are some post emergent herbicides available that will help keep the plot clean from grasses.
As a professional Land Manager and Consultant, I have found that there are certainly less expensive routes to take when establishing food plots. However, the soil sample is going to determine what level of savings you fall into. You can invest $10 in a soil sample to determine this and I would highly recommend this be your starting point. Good luck and if you have any more questions, please ask. I would even be happy to analyze your soil sample for you, if you would like.
