When it comes to creating a successful deer food plot, few species offer as much value as crimson clover for deer.
This cool-season annual legume, crimson clover for deer, has earned a reputation among hunters, land managers, and wildlife biologists for being a crop that is attractive to whitetails, easy to establish, and beneficial for both soil and surrounding ecosystems. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about crimson clover—from planting and soil prep to seasonal strategies and expert food plot mixes—so you can build a more effective, year-round forage program.
What Is Crimson Clover?
Crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) is a cool-season annual legume recognized by its hairy stems and deep crimson-red flower heads. It differs from red clover, which is a perennial with pink blossoms and a much longer lifespan. While crimson clover only lasts a single growing season, its fast germination, high forage yield, and reseeding ability make it a cornerstone of many wildlife food plots.
- Bloom period: Late spring, producing vibrant flowers that attract pollinators.
- Forage window: Primarily fall through late spring in the South; shorter in the North.
- Growth habit: Upright and quick-growing, reaching 1–3 feet tall under ideal conditions.
Nutritional Benefits of Crimson Clover for Deer
The primary reason hunters and landowners choose crimson clover for deer is its nutritional punch.
- Protein levels: 25–30% crude protein, meeting the dietary needs of growing fawns and antler-producing bucks.
- Digestibility: Highly palatable and digestible, especially during early growth stages.
- Forage yield: Produces 6,000–7,000 pounds of dry forage per acre, supporting high deer densities.
In addition to deer attraction, crimson clover improves soil health by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, supports pollinators during flowering, and reduces erosion by covering bare soil.
Regional Adaptation and Planting Seasons
Crimson Clover for Deer in the South
In southern states, crimson clover is typically planted in late summer to early fall. It germinates quickly, providing forage by early bow season and persisting through spring. With proper management, it can reseed itself naturally.
Crimson Clover for Deer in the North
In northern climates, crimson clover struggles with harsh winters. It is best used as a spring planting, though its lifespan is shorter due to summer heat. Northern hunters often combine it with perennial clovers or cereal grains to extend forage availability.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Soil Testing and Preparation
- pH: Optimal range 6.0–6.7 (tolerates down to 5.5).
- Nutrients: Apply phosphorus and potassium based on soil test results; nitrogen is unnecessary due to nitrogen fixation.
- Seedbed: Firm, weed-free, and well-prepared to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Seeding Rates
- Broadcasting: 20–25 pounds per acre.
- Drilling: 10–15 pounds per acre.
- Inoculation: Use Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii for best nodulation and nitrogen fixation.
Smart Food Plot Mixes with Crimson Clover for Deer
Annual Attraction Blends
A proven mix includes:
- 15 lb crimson clover
- 10 lb arrowleaf clover
- 40 lb cereal grains (oats, wheat, or rye)
This blend delivers fast germination in fall, high preference during deer hunting season, and extended forage into spring.
Extended-Season Cool-Season Mixes
For longer spring production, combine crimson with arrowleaf, balansa, or berseem clover. These species mature later, ensuring continuous forage when crimson begins to decline.
Perennial Clover Integration
Blending crimson clover with ladino, red clover, or chicory can create a perennial base with a burst of early attraction from crimson in the first year.
Maintenance and Reseeding Strategies
- Reseeding: Allow crimson clover to bloom and drop seed in late spring. Mow lightly or terminate cereal companions to release seed.
- Weed control: Avoid herbicides that harm legumes. Mowing or strategic glyphosate application after reseeding can reset the plot.
- Rotation: Plant cereals or brassicas in following years to utilize the nitrogen built up in the soil.
Limitations of Crimson Clover for Deer
While crimson clover is highly effective, it has limitations:
- Short life span: Annual only, requires reseeding or rotation.
- Cold sensitivity: Poor winter survival in northern zones.
- Drought stress: Doesn’t perform well under extended dry conditions.
To overcome these challenges, integrate crimson into multi-species blends and rotate deer food plots strategically.
Comparison of Clover Types (Quick Reference Table)
| Clover Type | Lifespan | Protein % | Best Region | Reseeding Potential | Planting Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson | Annual | 25–30% | South/Midwest | High | Fall (South), Spring (North) |
| Arrowleaf | Annual | 20–25% | South | High | Fall |
| Balansa | Annual | 22–28% | South/Midwest | Moderate | Fall |
| Berseem | Annual | 20–25% | South | Low | Fall |
| Red Clover | Biennial | 20–25% | North/Midwest | Moderate | Spring/Fall |
| Ladino | Perennial | 25–30% | Nationwide | Low | Spring/Fall |