For Merit Seed, Wildlife Clover is the most reliable choice for a high-protein, multi-year food plot. Clover is a perennial legume that fixes its own nitrogen, meaning it improves the soil while providing a consistent food source for deer and turkey from early spring through late fall. Because it handles heavy grazing well and grows back quickly, it is an ideal base crop for any property. Our selections range from heat-tolerant white clovers to fast-growing red varieties, ensuring you have a durable plot that can last for several years with basic maintenance.
Soil pH is Critical: Clover thrives best when the soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, the plants cannot efficiently access nutrients or fix nitrogen.
Mowing for Vigor: To keep clover palatable and prevent weeds from taking over, mow the plot to a height of 4–6 inches during the summer. This stimulates new, tender growth that deer prefer.
Frost Seeding: You can successfully plant clover in late winter by broadcasting seed over frozen ground. The natural freezing and thawing cycle pulls the small seeds into the soil for early spring germination.
Inoculation: Most of our clover seeds come pre-inoculated. This ensures the plants have the specific bacteria needed to produce their own nitrogen, leading to healthier stands and lower fertilizer costs.
