Introduction
If you’re an avid hunter, you know how important it is to attract deer to your property. One way to do this is by planting clover. Clover is a great food source for deer and provides them with the necessary nutrients to survive. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about planting clover for deer.
Types of Clover
There are three main types of clover: red clover, white clover, and ladino clover. Red clover is a biennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. It produces pink to purple flowers and is a great source of nectar for bees. White clover is a perennial plant that grows up to 8 inches tall. It produces white flowers and is a great source of food for deer. Ladino clover is a perennial plant that grows up to 12 inches tall. It produces white flowers and is a great source of food for deer.
When to Plant Clover
The best time to plant clover is in the fall, between August and November. This allows the clover to establish itself before winter and gives it a head start in the spring. If you miss the fall planting window, you can also plant clover in the spring, between March and May.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting clover, it’s important to prepare the soil. Start by testing the soil pH to make sure it’s between 6.0 and 7.0. If it’s not, you may need to add lime or sulfur to adjust the pH. Next, remove any weeds or debris from the area where you plan to plant the clover. Finally, till the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches to loosen it up and provide a good seed bed for the clover.
Planting the Clover
Once the soil is prepared, it’s time to plant the clover. Start by broadcasting the seed over the area where you want the clover to grow. Be sure to follow the recommended seeding rate for the type of clover you’re planting. After broadcasting the seed, use a rake to lightly cover the seed with soil. Finally, water the area to help the seed germinate.
Clover Maintenance
Clover requires minimal maintenance once it’s established. However, it’s important to keep the area weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and water. You can also fertilize the clover once or twice a year to promote growth. Finally, consider mowing the clover to a height of 4 to 6 inches to encourage new growth and prevent the plants from becoming too tall.
Conclusion
Planting clover for deer is a great way to attract these animals to your property. By following these tips, you can establish a healthy clover plot that will provide deer with the necessary nutrients to survive. Remember to plant clover in the fall or spring, prepare the soil, and maintain the clover plot to ensure its success.