Why Clover? The Benefits of Clover Food Plots
Nutritional Value
The crackle of dried leaves beneath a deer’s hooves, the flash of a gobbler taking flight, the silent promise of a successful hunt – these are the moments that ignite the passion of wildlife enthusiasts. Creating a thriving food plot is an investment in those moments, a commitment to enhancing habitat and providing vital nutrition for the animals we cherish. And among the many options for establishing a welcoming haven, clover consistently stands out as a superior choice. Its remarkable benefits, ease of cultivation, and adaptability make it a cornerstone for anyone aiming to transform their land into a wildlife paradise.
A food plot, at its core, is a dedicated area of land specifically cultivated to provide a concentrated source of food for wildlife. It acts as a supplemental food source, offering a diverse diet of essential nutrients that may be lacking in the natural environment. Beyond the nutritional advantages, food plots also serve to attract wildlife, concentrating animals in a defined area, and improving the hunting experience. Furthermore, food plots directly contribute to habitat improvement by providing cover, reducing erosion, and enriching soil health. Clover’s reputation as a key player in the realm of food plots is well-deserved. Its versatility, ease of cultivation, and numerous advantages make it an excellent choice for beginner and seasoned land managers alike.
One of clover’s biggest draws is its outstanding nutritional value. It’s packed with protein, an essential building block for muscle growth and overall animal health. Deer, for instance, thrive on a diet rich in protein, which promotes antler development in bucks and healthy fawns in does. The high energy content of clover helps animals maintain body condition, especially during the stressful winter months. Beyond deer, clover provides benefits to many other species. Turkeys and other ground-feeding birds find a wealth of insects and seeds within the clover stands, supporting their growth and survival. Rabbits, rodents, and a host of beneficial insects are also attracted, creating a balanced and thriving ecosystem.
Attracting Wildlife
The ability of clover to attract wildlife is another crucial benefit. Clover’s palatability, meaning how much wildlife likes to eat it, is exceptionally high. Many species find the tender leaves and sweet taste irresistible. The visual appeal of a lush, green clover plot also contributes. The vibrant foliage stands out, creating a beacon that draws animals in. The concentrated food source provided by clover encourages regular visits, allowing hunters to pattern animal movements and, ultimately, experience more successful hunts.
Soil Health Benefits
Clover also offers an important environmental advantage: it’s a natural soil improver. Clover’s ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere is a tremendous benefit for soil health. This natural fertilization process reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, saving money and protecting the environment. Clover roots also help control erosion, a significant concern for land managers. Their dense root system holds the soil in place, preventing runoff and preserving topsoil. Over time, the decomposition of clover roots enriches the soil with organic matter, improving its structure and water-holding capacity.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
Clover’s durability and relatively low maintenance requirements make it an appealing choice. While some food plot species demand constant attention, clover stands can often thrive with minimal effort. This is especially true once the plot is established. With proper preparation, clover can persist for several years, providing a long-term food source for wildlife.
Choosing the Right Clover Variety
Selecting the right clover variety is critical to success. The ideal choice depends on various factors, including your region, soil type, and the wildlife species you want to attract. Let’s examine a few of the most popular and reliable clover varieties:
White Clover
White clover, *Trifolium repens*, is a widespread and adaptable choice. It is easily recognizable by its small, round leaves and white flower heads. It offers excellent palatability and is relatively tolerant of moderate grazing. White clover is a good choice for areas with moderate rainfall and well-drained soils. It spreads via stolons (horizontal stems), forming dense mats. White clover is often used in mixes, offering good grazing and nutritional benefits.
Red Clover
Red clover, *Trifolium pratense*, is another popular option, particularly known for its high protein content. It is a more upright-growing clover with larger leaves and showy red-purple flowers. Red clover grows rapidly, providing a quick and abundant source of forage. This clover is known for its aggressive growth habit, making it ideal for plots where quick establishment is desired. It is best suited to well-drained soils and tolerates a wider range of soil conditions than white clover.
Crimson Clover
Crimson clover, *Trifolium incarnatum*, is an annual clover that is popular for its striking crimson flowers and fast growth. Crimson clover is often used as a cover crop or a component of a food plot mix. It is relatively easy to establish and provides excellent forage in the early spring. This clover is particularly beneficial in the early season, providing a valuable food source for deer and other wildlife after a long winter.
When selecting a clover variety, several factors should influence your choice. Consider your climate and the prevailing temperatures. The growing season length and rainfall patterns influence which varieties will thrive. Soil type is crucial, as clover performs best in well-drained, fertile soils with a neutral pH (around 6.0-7.0). Your intended wildlife species are also a consideration. While all clovers are attractive to many animals, some varieties may be better suited for specific species. Also, the desired lifespan of your food plot should be weighed. Some varieties are perennial (lasting for several years) while others are annual (needing to be replanted each year).
Site Preparation is Key
Preparing the site properly is essential for establishing a healthy and productive clover food plot. The first step is soil testing. A soil test provides critical information about the soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Soil testing is inexpensive and readily available through local agricultural extension offices. Take multiple samples from different areas of your plot to get an accurate representation of your soil conditions.
Soil Testing
Armed with the results of your soil test, you can make informed decisions about soil amendments. Most clover varieties prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH (6.0-7.0). If your soil is acidic, you’ll need to add lime to raise the pH. The soil test will indicate the amount of lime needed. You may need to incorporate lime into the soil several months before planting, as it takes time to react with the soil. Apply recommended fertilizers based on your soil test results to provide the nutrients clover needs to flourish. Phosphorus and potassium are especially important.
Weed Control
Weed control is another crucial aspect of site preparation. Existing weeds can compete with clover seedlings for resources, hindering establishment. Thorough weed control before planting is essential. Depending on the type and severity of weeds, you can use several methods. Tilling, or plowing, can bury weed seeds and expose them to the elements. A broad-spectrum herbicide can also be used to kill existing weeds. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions.
Tilling and Seedbed Preparation
Proper tilling and seedbed preparation are also critical. Tilling loosens the soil, improving aeration and drainage. It also helps incorporate soil amendments and bury weed seeds. After tilling, use a harrow or cultipacker to create a firm, level seedbed. A firm seedbed ensures good seed-to-soil contact, which is necessary for successful germination.
Planting Your Clover Food Plot
Choosing the correct planting time is essential for establishing a healthy clover stand. The optimal planting time varies depending on the clover variety and your geographic location. Generally, clover is best planted in the spring or fall. Spring planting allows clover to establish before the hot summer months. In the fall, clover can establish before the winter, getting a head start on growth the following spring. Research the best planting times for your specific area and chosen clover varieties.
Seeding Rates
The seeding rate, or the amount of seed planted per acre, varies depending on the clover variety and planting method. Following the recommended seeding rate is crucial for achieving the desired stand density. Too little seed can result in a thin, patchy stand, while too much seed can lead to overcrowding and reduced yields. Refer to the seed label or consult with your local agricultural extension office for recommended seeding rates.
Planting Methods
Several planting methods can be used, each with its advantages. Broadcasting involves spreading the seed evenly over the prepared soil surface. This method is simple and suitable for smaller plots. Ensure good seed-to-soil contact after broadcasting by lightly dragging a chain harrow or cultipacking. Drilling involves using a specialized planter designed to plant seeds at a consistent depth. Drilling provides more precise seed placement and improved seed-to-soil contact, leading to more uniform establishment.
Planting Depth
Once the seeds are sown, the next crucial element is planting depth. Most clover varieties have small seeds and should be planted shallowly, typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Planting too deep can prevent the seedlings from emerging. Planting depth can be adjusted by using a cultipacker or drag.
Managing Your Clover Food Plot
After planting, several management practices are essential for maintaining a productive clover food plot. Fertilization is key to providing the nutrients needed for optimal growth. Soil test results will guide your fertilizer applications. Clover requires nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Remember, clover is a legume and, therefore, fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere. Excessive nitrogen fertilizer can actually hinder clover’s ability to fix nitrogen.
Weed Control
Weed control continues to be important after planting. Weeds can compete with clover for resources, reducing its growth and productivity. Several methods are available for post-planting weed control. Mowing can be effective for controlling certain weeds. Selective herbicides can be used to kill weeds without harming the clover. Carefully select herbicides appropriate for your specific clover variety and weed problems, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Mowing
Mowing offers multiple benefits for clover food plots. Mowing keeps weeds under control, encourages denser growth, and improves the palatability of the clover. When mowing, cut at a height of 4 to 6 inches. This helps the clover to recover quickly while suppressing weed growth. The timing of mowing depends on the clover’s growth stage and the presence of weeds.
Pest and Disease Management
Pest and disease management is an ongoing concern for clover plots. Several pests and diseases can affect clover. Regular scouting is critical for detecting problems early. Controlling pest outbreaks through insecticides and diseases through fungicides is often necessary. Choosing pest and disease-resistant clover varieties, practicing crop rotation, and maintaining healthy soil can help minimize these challenges.
Watering
In drier conditions, it’s important to provide a source of water for the clover. If the clover is struggling during dry periods, supplemental watering, either through irrigation or from available water sources, can greatly improve production.
Extending the Life of Your Clover Plot
One helpful technique for maintaining and improving your clover plot is over-seeding. Over-seeding is the practice of planting additional seed into an existing stand. Over-seeding clover can help to fill in any thin spots, increase the density of the stand, and introduce new varieties or genetics.
No-Till Management
Another approach is no-till management. No-till planting minimizes soil disturbance, preserving soil structure, reducing erosion, and promoting soil health. This method also conserves moisture. To practice no-till, use a no-till drill to plant the seeds directly into the existing cover crop or stubble.
Rotation
Finally, when you have several food plots, rotating clover with other crops can help break pest and disease cycles, improve soil health, and diversify food sources. Rotating clover with other species, such as grains or brassicas, will also increase overall plot productivity.
Food Plot Considerations and Best Practices
The size and shape of your food plot can significantly impact its effectiveness. A larger plot provides more food for wildlife and can attract a greater number of animals. However, a smaller plot is easier to manage. Consider the available land area and your goals when determining plot size. The shape of your plot also matters. Long, narrow plots can provide more edge cover, which wildlife often prefer.
Location
Location is another crucial factor. Choose a location that offers a good balance of sunlight, water, and soil quality. Consider the proximity to cover, such as woods or thickets, where animals can feel safe. You can also choose a location with good visibility for hunting.
You can also consider integrating clover with other food plot species. This can provide a diverse range of food sources and improve the overall nutritional value of your plots. For example, you can mix clover with cereal grains or brassicas.
Keep good records. Monitor your plots regularly. Observe wildlife activity. Document your planting dates, fertilizer applications, and any weed control measures. This information will help you refine your management practices over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, planting a clover food plot is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly benefit wildlife. By understanding the benefits of clover, carefully selecting the right variety, preparing your site properly, planting it carefully, and providing ongoing management, you can create a thriving food source that attracts and nourishes wildlife for years. This commitment to habitat management enhances the overall health of the ecosystem, creating a haven for wildlife and providing enjoyment for the outdoor enthusiast. It’s a testament to the fact that thoughtful stewardship can yield incredible rewards. So, embrace the challenge, get planting, and experience the satisfaction of providing a vital resource for the creatures that share our land.
