Real Orchardists, Real Results
Our Story
Deer Orchard started in our own orchards, where we grow fruit and nut trees for human consumption. As orchardists, our entire focus is on one thing: production. How many pounds per tree? How quickly can we get to harvest? How do we maximize yield per acre?
After years of planting chestnuts, persimmons, and other productive trees on our own orchard properties, we had a realization: the skills that make a successful commercial orchard are exactly the skills that create the best wildlife habitat.
The only difference between an orchard and a deer orchard is a fence.
We noticed that many nurseries selling "wildlife trees" focused on ornamental qualities or easy propagation rather than actual production. Hunters were buying trees that looked good but produced minimal food for wildlife. We knew we could do better.
That's why we created Deer Orchard—to bring commercial orchard expertise to hunters and land managers who want trees that actually produce.
Why Production Matters
When you're growing trees to attract deer, production is everything. A tree that produces 5 pounds of chestnuts is nice. A tree that produces 20 pounds of chestnuts is a game-changer for your property.
As commercial orchardists, we obsess over:
Genetics - selecting varieties with proven heavy production and known parentage
Root development - strong roots mean faster growth and earlier production
Soil management - proper nutrition leads to maximum yields
Planting techniques - correct establishment practices ensure long-term success
We transfer this knowledge directly to you. Every tree we sell comes from the same stock we'd plant in our own orchards. Every recommendation we make is based on what actually works for maximum production.
We're proud partners with Southern Ohio Chestnut Company, working with professional growers who understand that superior genetics are the foundation of orchard success.
MEET THE TEAM
Chris Smyth
Chris has spent years at the center of orchard work in Ohio, planting and managing thousands of trees. As a nurseryman, he focuses on propagation, grafting, and selecting varieties that perform in real-world conditions.
At Deer Orchard, Chris ensures every tree offered is production-ready — chosen not just to survive, but to yield reliably and provide long-term value for wildlife.
Badger Baldwin Johnson
As a certified forester, Badger works directly with landowners to design and implement forest management plans and food plot installations that maximize wildlife habitat. His experience bridges the gap between healthy woodlands, open fields, and the strategic placement of fruit and nut trees.
At Deer Orchard, Badger brings the perspective of the hunter and land steward, ensuring that customers not only get the right trees but also know how to fit them into a larger property vision for wildlife.
Our Approach
Real Orchardists, Real Results
We don't just grow trees—we grow productive trees. Our background in commercial fruit and nut production means we understand what it takes to get trees producing quickly and abundantly.
Known Genetics, Superior Parentage
All our chestnut trees come from known, grafted, high-production cultivars. We don't sell random seedlings or trees with "muddy lineage." You deserve to know exactly what you're planting.
Wildlife-Focused Selection
Every variety we offer has been chosen for its wildlife value. We prioritize characteristics like:
High sugar or protein content
Heavy annual production
Staggered ripening times for extended feeding
Minimal maintenance requirements
Quality Over Quantity
We grow our trees with the same care and attention we give our commercial stock. That means strong root systems, proper hardening off, and healthy, vigorous plants that establish quickly on your property.
Expert Guidance
Beyond selling trees, we provide the orchard management knowledge that most wildlife nurseries don't have. We can help you with spacing, soil preparation, variety selection, and long-term management strategies to maximize production.
The Deer Orchard Difference
We're Growers First: Unlike nurseries that simply resell trees, we're active orchardists who understand production from the ground up.
Production Expertise: Our trees are selected and grown using commercial orchard techniques that maximize yield per tree.
Known Parentage: Every chestnut tree we sell comes from documented, high-quality parent stock—no genetic lottery.
Hunter Knowledge: We understand what attracts deer and when different food sources are most valuable throughout the hunting season.
Long-Term Investment: The trees you plant today will produce for decades. We help you select and establish trees that will create lasting wildlife habitat and hunting opportunities.
Our Promise
Every tree we sell meets our own standards for commercial production. We stand behind our trees with our satisfaction guarantee and are committed to helping you succeed.
Whether you're establishing a new hunting property, improving existing habitat, or creating a legacy wildlife orchard, we provide the trees and expertise to help you achieve maximum production.
Ready to start growing deer on your property? [Shop Trees] or [Contact Us] with questions about your specific needs.