How to Grow Chufas

Chufa fields entice wild turkeys after Thanksgiving, when other food is scarce.

Chufa, a Spanish word for "ground almond," is a nut grass (Cyperus esculentus) grown to feed wild turkeys and waterfowl. Initially grown for turkeys, it produces small, almond-like tubers underground that are very high in protein and carbohydrates. Flood chufa fields to feed ducks and other wintering wildfowl. Chufa grows in any area corn will grow and requires similar care. In other words, chufa needs rich, well drained soil and full sun to thrive.

Things You'll Need

• Till
• Rake
• Compost
• 10-10-10 fertilizer

Instructions

1. Prepare a bed for planting the chufa. Remove any rocks or weeds from the area with the rake and till the ground well to about 3 to 4 inches in depth. Add 2 to 3 inches of compost to the soil and work it into the soil to about 4 inches deep.

2. Broadcast the chufa, sowing seed at a rate of 40 lbs. an acre; for small patches, broadcast 2 to 4 seeds per square foot. Cover seeds with 1 to 2 inches of soil. Water the soil well for 10 minutes or more, so the ground is moist. Keep the soil moist until the chufa emerges. Plant chufa from late April to early July in most areas.

3. Fertilize the chufa with 150 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per acre after you plant the chufa. Add 50 lbs. more once the chufa is between 6 and 8 inches tall.

4. Allow turkeys to eat the chufa once it is ready, or about 90 to 100 days after planting. Flood your field if you want waterfowl to eat the chufa instead -- or after the turkeys have had their turn.

References

• Tennessee State: Chufa - Not Just for Turkeys Anymore
• Chufa: How to Grow
• Cypress Knee Chufa: Frequently Asked Questions