I have tried several types of peas, all with the same results. As soon at the plants get about 10" - 12" tall - Boom - the deer mow 'em down, time and time agian. I never actually get any "peas", only pea plants.

Do you see the same results?

What type of peas do you plant?

We planted Iron and Clay cow peas this year.

Gator

How big is your plot. Most of the time if you don't have more than 3 acres the deer will mow them down. Remember though, you planted them to be eaten

If you do not have the ability to plant a large enough plot with peas, then the deer will eat them quickly depending upon the deer density in your area. I planted 2 acres in Fayette Co. and they made peas, but as soon as the peas were 4-5" long, they completed ate them up in 2-3 days. Those were Iron & Clay peas and where I live, the deer density is 1 deer/75-100 acres.

Use a wire cage (4'square x 4-5'high) to determine the frequency of utilization on your food plots. You'll be amazed most times!

The iron and clay peas do better in clay or heavier type soils. The red ripper do better in sandy soils. The deer love the peas, so the more you can plant the better. If they are mowing down the area you planted, plant more areas if you have the space. Peas will grow until a frost. With all the moisture this year it looks like you can plant any time.

I have a big patch, about 4 - 5 acres. I didnt plant them in rows, they are completly covering the area. They must be hitting them pretty hard...

Yes, they will strip 5 acres row or broadcast pretty hard this time of the year. Like TXDef said, you planted the peas for them to eat. Should be an indicator you need more acreage if you want the most food possible for them.

a 4-5 acre plots is good size, but its not big, especially if you are in south or central texas. its a shame there eating them to fast, but better to have them eaten than not at all. try to plant a few 2 acre patches to help reduce the stress on the 5 acre plot

Im in East Texas, truth is I (think) have the only summer time food plot around.

i would at the very least, plant a few more to take some of the heat off of them. and if your lucky enough to have the only plot around, bow hunt them in october for the chance at a truly nice buck. i would also invest in a game cam to see what might be visiting your plots while your not there