Best Perennial Clover for Deer: Top Varieties for Year-Round Forage
Deer love clover, and many hunters and landowners want to attract them. Choosing the right perennial clover can enhance your food plot and keep deer coming back.
Perennial clovers provide a reliable food source for deer year after year. They are a favorite due to their high nutritional value and palatability. But with so many options available, selecting the best one can be challenging. In this guide, we’ll explore the top perennial clovers for deer.
We’ll consider factors like growth habits, climate adaptability, and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve your hunting grounds or just enjoy watching wildlife, the right clover can make all the difference. Let’s dive into the best perennial clovers that will keep your deer happy and healthy.
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Introduction To Perennial Clover
Perennial clover is a great choice for deer. It provides them with a consistent food source. Deer love it because it is tasty and nutritious. This plant grows back year after year. It saves you time and effort.
Clover is high in protein. This helps deer grow strong and healthy. It is also full of vitamins and minerals. Deer need these to stay healthy. Clover is easy for deer to digest. This makes it a perfect food.
Deer need food all year. Clover grows in spring, summer, and fall. It even stays green in winter. This means deer always have food to eat. Having food all year helps deer survive and thrive.
White Clover Varieties
White clover varieties like Ladino and Durana are ideal for attracting deer. These perennials provide nutritious forage and thrive in various soils.
Characteristics Of White Clover
White clover is a perennial plant. It grows back every year. Deer love this type of clover. It has small white flowers. The leaves are green and oval-shaped. This clover can grow in many soil types. It is easy to maintain. It also spreads quickly.
White clover fixes nitrogen in the soil. This helps other plants grow. It is also drought-resistant. This makes it durable in tough conditions. It provides good nutrition for deer. It is high in protein. This helps deer stay healthy.
Best White Clover Types For Deer
| Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Ladino Clover | Large leaves, high protein, good for deer. |
| Durana Clover | Drought-resistant, long-lasting, deer love it. |
| Patriot Clover | Fast-growing, high yield, nutrient-rich. |
Red Clover Varieties
Red clover is a perennial plant. It provides excellent forage for deer. This clover is high in protein. It helps in deer health and growth. Red clover is also easy to grow. It can adapt to many soil types. Drought-resistant and cold-hardy, red clover thrives in many climates. Deer love its sweet taste and tender leaves. Planting red clover can attract more deer to your land.
There are several types of red clover. Each has its own benefits. Some top varieties include:
- Mammoth Red Clover: Known for large leaves and quick growth.
- Medium Red Clover: Versatile and easy to establish.
- Kenland Red Clover: Disease-resistant and durable.
- Cinnamon Plus Red Clover: Offers high yield and good persistence.
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Ladino Clover
Ladino Clover stands out as the best perennial clover for deer. Its lush growth and high protein content attract and nourish deer year-round.
Unique Features
Ladino clover is a perennial plant. It grows back every year. It has large leaves. These leaves are great for deer. Ladino clover can grow in many types of soil. It also needs less water. This clover grows fast. It stays green for a long time. The plant is very nutritious. It gives deer the energy they need. Ladino clover is also easy to plant. It spreads quickly. This makes it a good choice for deer habitats.
Advantages For Deer Forage
Ladino clover offers many benefits for deer. Deer love to eat it. It is very tasty and nutritious. This clover helps deer grow strong. It keeps them healthy. Ladino clover is also very durable. It can survive in different weather conditions. It provides food all year round. This is good for deer in winter. The plant is also easy to manage. It requires little care. This makes it perfect for large areas. Ladino clover is a great choice for deer forage.
Alsike Clover
Alsike Clover stands out as an excellent perennial clover for deer. It thrives in wet soils, providing nutritious forage throughout the year. This clover attracts deer with its lush, palatable growth.
Distinctive Traits
Alsike Clover is known for its hardiness. It can grow in various soil types. This clover thrives in cool, moist environments. It can tolerate wet and acidic soils. Alsike Clover has pinkish-white flowers. These flowers bloom from late spring to summer. The plant can reach up to 2 feet in height. It has a deep root system, which helps in drought conditions. Alsike Clover can live for many years.
Suitability For Deer
Deer love Alsike Clover. It is nutritious and palatable. The high protein content helps deer grow strong. Alsike Clover provides good forage in spring and summer. It also stays green longer in the season. This makes it a reliable food source for deer. Alsike Clover can also attract other wildlife. Planting Alsike Clover can enhance your habitat for deer.
Durana Clover
Durana Clover is tough. It stands up to harsh weather. It lasts through dry seasons. This makes it perfect for deer plots. Even in poor soil, it grows strong. Farmers love its resilience. It keeps coming back each year.
Deer enjoy the taste. This clover is sweet and tender. It is also rich in protein. This helps deer grow and stay healthy. Durana Clover provides food all year. Even in winter, it stays green. Deer always find it tasty and nutritious.
Planting And Maintenance Tips
Good soil is key for clover. Test soil for pH levels. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add lime to raise pH if needed. Remove weeds and rocks. Till the soil to a depth of 4 inches. This helps seeds take root. Mix in organic matter like compost. This improves soil quality. Ensure the soil is well-drained. Clover doesn’t like wet feet. Level the soil for even growth.
Regular care is crucial. Mow the clover to keep it healthy. This prevents weeds from taking over. Do not mow too short. Leave about 3 inches of growth. Fertilize in early spring. Use a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing. Water the clover during dry spells. Deep watering is best. Inspect for pests and diseases. Treat problems promptly. Rotate the planting area every few years. This prevents soil depletion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Perennial Clover For Deer?
The best perennial clover for deer is typically white clover. It’s hardy, nutritious, and attracts deer consistently.
How Do You Plant Clover For Deer?
Plant clover in well-drained soil, ideally in early spring or fall. Ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
How Long Does Clover Last?
Perennial clover can last several years if managed properly. Regular mowing and fertilization help maintain its longevity.
Can Clover Survive In Winter?
Yes, perennial clover can survive winter. It goes dormant and regrows in spring, making it resilient.
Conclusion
Choosing the best perennial clover for deer can enhance your hunting success. High-quality clover provides essential nutrients and attracts deer year-round. Keep your food plots well-maintained for optimal growth. Experiment with different varieties to see what works best in your area.
With patience and care, you will create a thriving habitat for deer. Happy hunting!
