Clover and Chicory Food Plot: Boost Deer Attraction with Chicory & Clover

March 17, 2026

Creating a food plot is a fantastic way to attract deer and improve their habitat. By providing a steady source of nutrition, you can help deer thrive and keep them coming back to your land. One standout choice for a successful plot is a clover and chicory blend. Known for its high nutritional value, year-round appeal, and easy growth, a clover-and-chicory mix is favored by both wildlife enthusiasts and landowners.

A clover and chicory food plot is a top pick for those aiming to establish reliable deer attraction. Together, these plants offer adaptability and resilience, making them ideal for drawing deer and supporting herd health. This guide will walk you through the benefits of using clover and chicory in your plots and offer practical tips for planting and maintaining them effectively.

Why Choose Clover and Chicory for Deer?

Clover and chicory provide numerous nutritional and habitat benefits, making them a valuable combination for any deer plot. Here are the key advantages:

High Protein Content: Both clover and chicory deliver quality forage that supports body condition, fawn development, and antler growth.
Rich and Balanced Nutrition: Chicory is mineral-dense while clover offers highly digestible forage, creating a well-rounded food source.
Highly Palatable and Reliable: Deer love this blend, returning regularly thanks to excellent taste, regrowth, and seasonal durability.

For more insights into the benefits of chicory for deer, check out the National Deer Association.

Getting Started: Preparing Your Clover and Chicory Deer Plot

Creating a successful clover and chicory deer plot requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Land Preparation

Test Your Soil: Determine pH and nutrient levels to know what amendments are needed for optimal growth.
Condition the Soil: Adjust pH with lime if necessary and add nutrients based on test results. Clover and chicory thrive in a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Clear the Area: Remove vegetation, rocks, and debris to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Step 2: Planting Clover and Chicory

Timing: Plant in spring or late summer for best results, ensuring adequate moisture and warmth.
Seeding Rate and Depth: For a blended plot, plant clover at approximately 6–8 pounds per acre and chicory at about 3–5 pounds per acre. Sow shallow—roughly 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep—for strong germination.
Cultipacking: Use a cultipacker, like those from Packer Maxx, to press seeds into the soil, enhancing germination. Explore options at Packer Maxx Cultipackers.

For detailed planting advice, refer to the National Deer Association's guide and the Deer Food Plot Planting Guide for the Southeast.

Maintaining Your Clover and Chicory Food Plot

Once your clover and chicory plot is established, regular maintenance is crucial to keep it attractive to deer.

Weed Control

Monitor Regularly: Watch for invasive weeds that compete for nutrients and sunlight.
Use Herbicides: Apply selective herbicides if necessary, targeting weeds without harming clover and chicory.

Fertilization

Annual Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer each year to replenish soil nutrients, supporting strong forage growth and nutritional value.

Regular upkeep not only sustains healthy growth but also maximizes your plot’s appeal to deer.

Combining Clover and Chicory for Enhanced Results

For a thriving deer habitat, planting clover and chicory together offers several benefits:

Nutritional Diversity: Together, they provide a balanced diet, with chicory offering protein and minerals, and clover adding essential nutrients.
Extended Growing Season: Different peak times ensure your plot remains productive year-round.
Improved Soil Health: Clover fixes nitrogen, benefiting chicory growth and soil quality.
Increased Appeal: Deer enjoy both plants, making a mixed plot more attractive. Consider Clover Maxx for optimal results.

By planting clover and chicory together, you create a diverse, nutritious plot that supports deer health and keeps their interest.

Real-Life Success Stories and Tips

Many have succeeded using clover and chicory in their plots. Here are some insights:

Success Story: A Midwest wildlife manager saw more deer visits after adding a clover-and-chicory blend, noting improved antler growth and herd health.
Combining Plants: A hobby farmer found that mixing chicory with clover attracted more deer and reduced weeds.
Overcoming Challenges: Regular mowing helped manage weeds, allowing chicory and clover to flourish.
Tip: Proper soil prep and testing before planting are crucial for success.

These examples highlight the benefits and practical considerations of using a clover and chicory blend in deer plots. By learning from others, you can create a more successful plot.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Clover and chicory food plots are a great way to enhance deer attraction and improve their habitat. With high protein content and essential nutrients, this blend supports deer health and growth. With the right preparation and maintenance, you can create a thriving plot that sustains wildlife.

A clover-and-chicory blend is easy to grow and highly nutritious for deer.
Planting these species together enhances plot diversity, resilience, and appeal.
Regular maintenance, including weed control and fertilization, is vital for success.

To make the most of your clover and chicory food plot, consider using Packer Maxx’s durable cultipackers. These tools ensure excellent seed-to-soil contact, essential for healthy growth. Visit Packer Maxx to explore our cultipackers and other products for habitat improvement. For more on why every plot needs a cultipacker, check out this article.