Did you know a single acre of clover can produce up to 8,000 pounds of forage annually? This shows why perennial clovers are a big deal for deer food plots. As someone who loves wildlife management, I’ve seen how the right clover can make a property a deer hotspot.
Choosing the best perennial clover for deer is more than just planting any green patch. It’s about making a sustainable, nutritious spot for deer to come back to every year. With white clover varieties and special blends, picking the right one can be tough. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you find the top choices that attract and keep healthy deer around.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best clover varieties for deer, focusing on their nutritional value and how long they last. Whether you’re experienced in food plot management or just starting, learning about these plants will improve your deer management skills. Let’s discover the secrets to making irresistible, long-lasting food plots that deer love.
Understanding Perennial Clovers and Their Benefits for Deer
Perennial cover crops for deer have many benefits for wildlife management. Clover food plots for deer are especially good. They give deer the nutrients they need and make the soil better over time.
Nutritional Value of Perennial Clovers
Clover is a nutritional powerhouse for deer. It’s full of protein, calcium, and other important nutrients. A well-kept clover plot can have up to 25% protein, helping deer grow strong antlers and stay healthy.
Year-Round Forage Availability
Perennial clovers are great because they provide food all year. They stay green even when it’s cold, giving deer quality food whenever they need it.
Soil Enhancement Properties
Clover food plots do more than feed deer – they also make the soil better. They fix nitrogen in the soil, cutting down on the need for fertilizers. This natural process makes the soil healthier, helping both the clover and other plants around it.
| Benefit | Impact on Deer | Impact on Soil |
|---|---|---|
| High Protein Content | Supports antler growth and body condition | N/A |
| Year-round Availability | Provides consistent food source | Reduces soil erosion |
| Nitrogen Fixation | Improves overall forage quality | Enhances soil fertility |
Best Perennial Clover for Deer: Top Varieties Compared
Choosing the right perennial clover for deer is key. I’ve found some top picks, including drought-tolerant options for tough conditions.
White clover is a favorite for food plots. It’s packed with nutrients and can handle a lot of grazing. Red clover, however, grows taller and produces more, perfect for bigger areas.
| Clover Type | Protein Content | Height | Drought Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ladino White Clover | 25-30% | 12-15 inches | Moderate |
| Red Clover | 15-20% | 18-24 inches | Good |
| Alsike Clover | 20-25% | 15-20 inches | Excellent |
Alsike or Berseem clovers are great for dry areas. They handle low rainfall well, offering deer a nutritious snack.
Mixing different clover types is wise. It makes your food plot diverse and strong. This way, deer have food all year, no matter the soil or weather.
White Clover Varieties for Deer Food Plots
White clover varieties are great for deer food plots. They are easy to care for and provide nutritious food for deer. Let’s look at three popular types that do well in different conditions.
Ladino Clover Characteristics
Ladino clover stands out among white clovers. It grows tall and spreads wide, perfect for big food plots. It loves moist soil and has lots of protein, great for growing bucks and nursing does.
Dutch White Clover Benefits
Dutch white clover is tough and grows low to the ground. It can handle a lot of grazing and mowing, ideal for busy areas. It does well in many soils and offers food all year.
New Zealand White Clover Features
New Zealand white clover is very good at handling drought. It grows thick and leafy and does well in warm weather. It’s a reliable choice for food plots, offering both quality and quantity.
| Clover Variety | Height | Drought Tolerance | Grazing Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ladino | 12-15 inches | Moderate | Good |
| Dutch White | 4-8 inches | Good | Excellent |
| New Zealand White | 6-10 inches | Very Good | Very Good |
Each white clover variety has its own benefits for deer food plots. Pick the one that fits your soil, climate, and plot size. This way, you’ll have a healthy, lasting food source for deer.
Establishing and Maintaining Clover Food Plots
Creating successful clover food plots for deer needs careful planning. I’ll show you how to set up and keep plots that deer love. These plots will feed deer all year round.
Soil Preparation and Testing
The first step is to prepare the soil right. Start by testing the soil to see its pH and nutrient levels. Clovers do best in soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
If your soil’s pH is off, add lime to fix it. Also, add fertilizers based on your soil test results.
Planting Techniques and Timing
Plant clover in early spring or late summer for the best results. Use a no-till drill or broadcast seeder to spread the seeds evenly. Lightly rake or cultipack the soil to help seeds grow.
Water the plot often during the first few weeks. This helps seeds germinate and grow.
Maintenance and Weed Control
Clover plots need little care, but mowing helps control weeds. Cut the plot to 4-6 inches when it’s 10-12 inches tall. This encourages new growth.
For weed control, use herbicides that target broadleaf weeds but not clovers.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Mowing | Every 4-6 weeks | Promotes new growth, controls weeds |
| Fertilization | Annually | Enhances nutrient content, improves yield |
| Weed Control | As needed | Reduces competition, improves clover health |
By following these steps, you’ll have clover plots that deer love. These plots will feed deer all year. Remember, it takes time for deer to find and use new plots.
Conclusion
Perennial clovers are a great choice for deer food plots. They are nutritious, available all year, and improve the soil. The best clover for deer depends on your specific needs and where you live.
White clover types like Ladino, Dutch White, and New Zealand White have their own benefits. Ladino grows tall, supporting big deer. Dutch White is tough for many climates. New Zealand White is good for dry areas. Each type helps make deer food in its own way.
To succeed with deer clover plots, start with the right steps. Test your soil, plant at the right time, and control weeds. These actions help your plot grow well and attract deer all year.
Choose a clover that fits your local weather and soil. With the right care, your plot will draw healthy deer. This will help both wildlife and hunting.
FAQ
What is the best perennial clover for deer food plots?
The best perennial clover for deer food plots varies by location. I often suggest white clover types like Ladino, Dutch White, or New Zealand White. These are nutritious, long-lasting, and deer-friendly. They also grow well in different soils and climates.
How long do perennial clovers last in a deer food plot?
Perennial clovers can last 3-5 years or more in a deer food plot. I’ve seen white clover plots last up to 7 years with proper care. Regular mowing, fertilizing, and overseeding can help extend their life.
Are there any drought-tolerant clovers suitable for deer food plots?
Yes, there are drought-tolerant clovers for deer food plots. Durana White Clover and Alsike Clover are good choices. They can handle dry weather better than some other clovers, making them great for dry areas.
How do I prepare the soil for planting perennial clover?
To prepare soil for perennial clover, follow these steps: 1) Test the soil for pH and nutrients. 2) Adjust pH to 6.0-7.0 if needed. 3) Remove existing plants by tilling or herbicide. 4) Fertilize based on the soil test. 5) Make a firm seedbed by cultipacking or rolling. Good soil preparation is key for a successful clover plot.
When is the best time to plant perennial clover for deer?
The best time to plant perennial clover depends on your area. In northern areas, spring (March-May) is best. Southern areas often do better with fall planting (August-September). Fall planting helps the clover grow before winter and fight weeds in spring.
How do I maintain a clover food plot to keep it attractive to deer?
To keep a clover food plot attractive to deer, follow these steps: 1) Mow regularly to encourage new growth and prevent weeds. 2) Fertilize annually based on soil tests. 3) Use selective herbicides or remove weeds manually. 4) Overseed thin spots to keep the plot dense. 5) Watch for pests and deal with them quickly. Regular care keeps your plot productive and appealing to deer.
