Quick Answer
Clover can survive heavy foot traffic from deer, but it will require regular maintenance and a specific type of clover to withstand the pressure.
Clover Species Selection
When choosing a clover species for a deer food plot, white clover (Trifolium repens) is a good option due to its ability to recover from heavy traffic. This species can tolerate up to 1,000 pounds of deer per acre per year, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. White clover also has a shallow root system, which allows it to quickly recover from damage.
Maintaining Clover Under Heavy Traffic
To maintain clover under heavy deer traffic, it’s essential to implement a regular mowing and fertilization schedule. Mowing the clover at a height of 2-3 inches will help promote new growth and prevent the clover from becoming overly mature. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 NPK) at a rate of 100-150 pounds per acre per year will also help promote healthy growth. Additionally, using a weed control product to manage invasive species like thistles and clover weeds will help maintain a healthy and dense clover stand.
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