As an outdoor writer and avid hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve spent countless hours observing deer behavior and experimenting with different food plot strategies. One thing consistently stands out: do deer like clover? Absolutely. Clover is a nutritional powerhouse for whitetail deer, and a well-maintained clover food plot can be a game-changer for attracting and holding deer on your property. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planting clover for deer, from choosing the right clover mix for deer to understanding the optimal whitetail clover planting dates.
Why Clover is a Deer Magnet
Clover isn’t just something deer like; it’s something they need. It’s packed with protein, especially during crucial growth stages like antler development and lactation. According to the Quality Deer Management Association, clover provides a highly digestible source of nutrients that other forages often lack. Beyond nutrition, deer actively prefer the taste of clover, making it a highly attractive food source. But not all clover is created equal. Understanding the different types is key to success.
Popular Clover Varieties for Deer Food Plots
When considering what clover is best for deer, you have several excellent options. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular:
- White Clover (Trifolium repens): This is a classic choice and often the foundation of many clover plots for deer. It’s perennial, meaning it comes back year after year, and tolerates close grazing. When to plant white clover for deer is typically in the late summer or early fall, but spring planting is also possible.
- Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Red clover is a taller-growing, also perennial, clover that provides a significant amount of forage. When to plant red clover for deer is similar to white clover – late summer/early fall is ideal.
- Alsike Clover (Trifolium hybridum): Alsike clover thrives in wetter soils and is a good option for areas prone to flooding.
- Ladino Clover (Trifolium repens): A larger-leaved variety of white clover, Ladino offers increased forage production.
- Plot Spike Clover Blend: This blend, often containing multiple clover varieties, is designed for quick establishment and high attraction. Many blends include chicory, which we’ll discuss shortly.
- Alyce Clover (Alysicarpus vaginalis): A warm-season annual clover, Alyce clover is excellent for providing forage during the summer months when other clovers may be less productive.
Planning Your Clover Food Plot: Timing is Everything
Knowing when to plant clover food plot is arguably the most important factor in ensuring success. The ideal whitetail clover planting dates depend on your location and the specific clover variety you choose. Generally, late summer/early fall (August-September) is the preferred time for most clover varieties. This allows the clover to establish a strong root system before winter. However, can you plant clover in the spring? Yes, you can, but spring-planted clover is more susceptible to weed competition and may not be as robust as fall-planted clover.
Optimal Planting Windows by Region
Here’s a general guideline, but always check with your local agricultural extension office for specific recommendations:
- Northern States: Late August – Mid-September
- Midwestern States: September – Early October
- Southern States: October – November (and potentially February-March for a second planting)
Remember, what month do you plant clover isn’t as important as soil temperature and moisture levels. Aim for soil temperatures consistently above 50°F for germination.
How to Plant Clover for Deer: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Soil Testing: Before you do anything, get your soil tested. This will tell you the pH level and nutrient content, allowing you to amend the soil accordingly. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (fs.usda.gov) offers resources on soil testing.
- Site Preparation: Clear the area of existing vegetation. This can be done through herbicide application, disking, or a combination of both.
- Soil Amendment: Based on your soil test results, add lime to adjust the pH to between 6.0 and 7.0. Also, incorporate fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.
- Seedbed Preparation: Create a firm, level seedbed.
- Seeding: Use a broadcast spreader or a drill to distribute the clover seed evenly. Follow the seeding rate recommendations on the seed package.
- Seed-to-Soil Contact: Lightly rake or roll the seed into the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
- Watering: Keep the seedbed moist until the clover germinates.
Beyond Clover: Considering Chicory and Other Forages
While clover is fantastic, diversifying your food plot can further enhance its attractiveness to deer. Many hunters ask, do deer like chicory? The answer is a resounding yes! Chicory is another highly palatable and nutritious forage that complements clover well. It’s particularly drought-tolerant and provides forage later into the fall and winter. A plotspike clover blend often includes chicory for this reason.
Other forages to consider include:
- Brassicas: Like turnips and radishes, these provide a highly attractive and nutritious food source in the fall and winter.
- Oats: Oats are a quick-growing annual grain that provides early-season forage.
- Winter Wheat: Provides a late-season food source and helps prevent erosion.
Maintaining Your Clover Food Plot
Planting is only half the battle. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your clover plots for deer productive.
- Weed Control: Control weeds through mowing, herbicide application, or hand-pulling.
- Mowing: Mow the clover periodically to encourage new growth and prevent it from going to seed.
- Fertilization: Apply fertilizer as needed, based on soil test results.
- Rotation: Rotate your food plots every few years to prevent soil depletion and disease buildup.
When Do Deer Eat Clover? A Seasonal Perspective
Deer will browse on clover throughout much of the year, but their consumption peaks during certain times. They heavily utilize clover in the spring for new growth, during antler development in the summer, and again in the fall as they prepare for winter. Understanding when do deer eat clover helps you time your maintenance practices for maximum impact.
Resources for Further Learning
Here are some valuable resources to help you plan and manage your deer food plots:
- National Park Service – General information on wildlife management.
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics – Responsible land stewardship practices.
- REI Expert Advice – Articles on gardening and food plot management.
- Quality Deer Management Association – In-depth resources on deer management.
By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving clover food plot that will attract and hold deer on your property for years to come. Remember, successful food plot management is an ongoing process that requires planning, effort, and a little bit of patience. Happy planting!
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with local experts and follow all applicable laws and regulations.