About Partridge Pea
Partridge pea is a native annual legume considered one of the most important quail food plants in North America by Quail Forever and NRCS biologists. The small, hard seeds in persistent pods are a critical high-protein, high-fat food for bobwhite quail from fall through winter. Because it re-seeds prolifically on disturbed ground, a single planting often establishes a self-sustaining stand that improves year over year.
How much Partridge Pea seed per acre?
The standard broadcast seeding rate for Partridge Pea is 10–15 lbs per acre, dropping to about 6.5 lbs per acre when drilled. Native legume; use scarified, pre-inoculated seed (cowpea-type Rhizobium). Quail Forever standard for upland habitat. The calculator above scales this to your exact plot size and converts it into the number of retail bags to buy.
When to plant Partridge Pea
Partridge Pea is a warm-season crop. In the northern US, plant in mid Apr–May; farther south, plant in mid Mar–mid May. Sow it 1/2" deep and plan on 70–90 days.
Soil, pH & fertilizer
Aim for a soil pH near 6.5(don't go below ~5.5). Minimal fertilizer (fixes its own N); avoid excess N, which favors grasses. Not sure where your soil sits? Read our soil test & lime guide.
Partridge Pea blends well with browntop millet, sunflowers if you want a more diverse, resilient plot.
Partridge Pea FAQ
- How much Partridge Pea seed do I need per acre?
- Broadcast Partridge Pea at about 10–15 lbs per acre, or 6.5 lbs per acre if you drill it. Native legume; use scarified, pre-inoculated seed (cowpea-type Rhizobium). Quail Forever standard for upland habitat.
- When should I plant Partridge Pea?
- In the northern US plant in mid Apr–May; in the South plant in mid Mar–mid May. Expect 70–90 days.
- What soil pH does Partridge Pea need?
- Partridge Pea does best at a soil pH around 6.5 (minimum ~5.5). Minimal fertilizer (fixes its own N); avoid excess N, which favors grasses.
- Do deer like Partridge Pea?
- Deer preference: low — a native quail legume; turkey and songbirds also use the seed.