Clover stands as a widely favored forage option for wildlife, particularly deer. Its presence in food plots can significantly influence deer populations. This article will explore the specific advantages clover offers to deer, delve into the various types suitable for wildlife, and provide practical guidance on establishing and maintaining successful clover food plots.
Nutritional Benefits for Deer
Clover offers a rich nutritional profile that supports deer health and development. Its high protein content, typically ranging from 15% to 30%, is beneficial for antler growth in bucks, milk production in nursing does, and overall body development in fawns. It is also highly digestible, with Total Digestible Nutrient (TDN) levels often between 70% and 80%, allowing deer to efficiently absorb its nutrients.
Beyond protein, clover supplies essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are important for bone structure and reproductive health. Deer find clover palatable, preferring its tender leaves even when other forages are available. Clover provides consistent nutrition across seasons, remaining available from early spring through late fall. This sustained availability makes it a reliable food source throughout much of the year.
Key Clover Varieties for Wildlife
Several clover varieties are commonly utilized in wildlife food plots, each with distinct growth habits and benefits. White clover, a perennial, spreads via stolons, which are horizontal stems that root at their nodes, promoting dense ground cover and tolerance to heavy grazing. Ladino clover, a large-leaved white clover, is known for its high protein content (25-30%) and palatability. Durana, an intermediate white clover, exhibits exceptional persistence under grazing, drought, and acidic soils, with protein levels exceeding 25%. White Dutch clover, a smaller-leaved white clover, is another perennial option for its hardiness.
Red clover is a cool-season perennial that grows more upright and has a deeper taproot, offering good drought tolerance. Its protein levels range from 20% to 30%, and it is widely adapted to various soil and climatic conditions. While considered a biennial, proper management can extend its lifespan. Crimson clover, an annual, is recognized for its rapid growth and tolerance to poorer soils. It provides high nutrition and is very attractive to deer, with protein levels of 25% to 30%.
Establishing and Managing Clover Food Plots
Successful clover food plots begin with careful site selection, favoring locations with at least four to six hours of daily sunlight and good drainage. Soil testing provides information on pH levels and nutrient deficiencies. Clover thrives in a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Adjusting pH with agricultural lime, based on soil test recommendations, is necessary for optimal plant growth and nutrient uptake.
Soil preparation involves tilling or disking to create a firm, smooth seedbed, which is important for small clover seeds. Weed control is also important, often addressed by applying herbicides before planting to eliminate competing vegetation. Clover seed should be planted at a shallow depth, typically no more than 1/4 inch, and proper seed-to-soil contact is achieved through cultipacking or light dragging.
Legumes like clover produce their own nitrogen, so fertilizers should focus on phosphorus and potassium, as indicated by soil tests. Ongoing management includes mowing the plot periodically to control weeds, promote new growth, and maintain palatability. Re-fertilization may be needed based on follow-up soil tests to maintain nutrient levels.