Why Are My Clover Plants Yellowing In The Food Plot?

Soil Conditions and Clover Performance

Yellowing clover plants often indicate underlying issues with your food plot’s soil conditions. Ensure your soil pH is suitable for clover growth, which thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral range (5.5-7.0). If your soil pH is too high or too low, it may lead to nutrient deficiencies, causing your clover to yellow. Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Based on the results, apply lime or sulfur to adjust the pH and fertilizers to address any nutrient deficiencies.

Clover Selection and Planting Timing

If you’ve recently planted a new clover variety, consider the specific growth habits and requirements of that species. For example, ‘Austrian Winter Pea Clover’ and ‘Micro Clover’ are more drought-tolerant, while ‘Red Clover’ and ‘White Clover’ require more moisture. Plant clover in the fall or early spring when temperatures are cooler, allowing the seeds to germinate and establish a strong root system before the heat of summer. Aim to plant clover about 6-8 weeks before the first frost.

Brassica and Clover Interplanting

Interplanting clover with brassicas like kale or turnips can enhance your food plot’s biodiversity and attract deer. Brassicas can provide a nutrient boost to the soil, which can in turn benefit the clover. When interplanting, aim to plant brassicas about 2-3 weeks after the clover has germinated. Use a drill or broadcast seeder to plant the brassicas at a rate of 1-2 pounds per acre, depending on the species and desired density.