What To Know
- Planting clover is a fantastic way to create a natural food source that deer will love.
- Crimson clover is a winter annual that provides a valuable food source for deer during the colder months.
- Build a small pond or create a water trough to provide drinking water for deer.
Are you looking to attract more deer to your property? Planting clover is a fantastic way to create a natural food source that deer will love. Not only will you enjoy watching them graze, but you’ll also be providing them with essential nutrients and improving your soil health. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of planting clover for deer, from choosing the right varieties to ensuring successful germination and growth.
Understanding Clover’s Appeal to Deer
Clover is a highly nutritious and palatable food source for deer. It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable addition to their diet. Deer are particularly drawn to clover because:
- High palatability: Clover is a sweet and tasty plant that deer find irresistible.
- Nutritional value: Clover provides essential nutrients that deer need for growth, reproduction, and overall health.
- Abundant availability: Clover spreads readily, creating a consistent food source throughout the year.
Choosing the Right Clover Varieties for Deer
Not all clover varieties are created equal. Some are better suited for deer than others. Here are a few popular choices:
- White clover: This is a common and highly palatable variety that deer love. It’s known for its fast growth and ability to withstand moderate grazing pressure.
- Red clover: Red clover is another good choice for deer, offering a higher protein content than white clover. It’s also known for its ability to tolerate colder temperatures.
- Crimson clover: Crimson clover is a winter annual that provides a valuable food source for deer during the colder months. It’s known for its vibrant crimson flowers.
- Alsike clover: Alsike clover is a good option for wet areas, as it can tolerate standing water. It’s also a valuable source of nectar for pollinators.
Preparing the Soil for Planting
Proper soil preparation is crucial for successful clover establishment. Here’s what you need to do:
- Test your soil: Conduct a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient content. Clover prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
- Amend the soil: If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, adjust the pH using lime or sulfur. You may also need to add compost or manure to improve soil fertility.
- Till the soil: Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches to loosen it and remove weeds.
- Remove any existing vegetation: Clear the area of any existing vegetation, including grasses, weeds, and shrubs.
Planting Clover Seeds
Once your soil is prepared, you can begin planting the clover seeds. Follow these steps:
- Choose a planting time: The best time to plant clover is in early spring or late summer.
- Sow the seeds: Broadcast the seeds evenly over the prepared soil. You can use a seed spreader or simply scatter the seeds by hand.
- Cover the seeds: Lightly rake the soil to cover the seeds.
- Water the seeds: Water the seeds thoroughly to encourage germination.
Maintaining Your Clover Patch
After planting, you need to maintain your clover patch to ensure healthy growth and attract deer. Here’s what you need to do:
- Water regularly: Water the clover regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilize as needed: If your soil is lacking in nutrients, fertilize the clover with a balanced fertilizer.
- Control weeds: Keep the clover patch free of weeds by hand-pulling or using a herbicide.
- Mow the clover: Mow the clover periodically to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too tall.
Creating a Deer-Friendly Habitat
Planting clover is just one part of creating a deer-friendly habitat. You can also attract deer by:
- Providing cover: Plant trees and shrubs to provide shelter and shade for deer.
- Creating a water source: Build a small pond or create a water trough to provide drinking water for deer.
- Minimizing disturbance: Avoid disturbing deer during their breeding and fawning seasons.
The Deer Whisperer: A Final Word on Attracting Deer
By following these steps, you can create a thriving clover patch that will attract deer to your property. Remember, patience is key. It may take some time for deer to discover your new food source. But once they do, you’ll be rewarded with the joy of watching them graze and enjoying the beauty of nature in your own backyard.
What You Need to Know
Q: How often should I mow my clover patch?
A: You should mow your clover patch every 4-6 weeks, depending on the growth rate. Aim to leave the clover at a height of 2-3 inches.
Q: Can I plant clover in shady areas?
A: Clover prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. However, it will grow more slowly and may not be as lush in shady areas.
Q: What are some other plants that attract deer?
A: Other plants that attract deer include:
- Berries: Blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Grasses: Fescue, orchardgrass, and timothy.
- Forbs: Dandelions, wild violets, and clover.
Q: Can I plant clover in my vegetable garden?
A: You can, but it’s not recommended. Clover can compete with your vegetables for nutrients and water. It’s best to plant clover in a separate area.
