When most of us think about planting food plots, we picture April and May — or maybe late summer in August and September. But more often than not, Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.
I’ve spent countless seasons investing time and money into planting during those traditional windows, only to watch extreme dry spells set my plots back — or burn them out completely.
Many hunters, myself included, love planting brassicas for fall. But clover deserves just as much attention. Not only does it stay green deep into the fall, it greens up extremely early in the spring — benefiting more than just your deer herd.
Through experience, I’ve found that the best time to plant clover isn’t spring — it’s late winter.
When clover is broadcast in April or May, the root systems often don’t have enough time to fully establish before summer heat and drought conditions arrive. But when you plant in late winter, you give the clover a head start. It has ample time to build a strong root system, survive summer stress, and come back even lusher in the fall.
Another major advantage? Moisture. Late winter and early spring typically provide far more consistent moisture than late spring or summer plantings. Instead of seed sitting in dry soil waiting and hoping for rain, frost-seeded clover benefits from natural ground conditions that promote strong germination.
When I frost-seed clover, I intentionally overseed. A thicker stand helps choke out competing weeds and unwanted vegetation, creating a denser, more productive plot.
So what exactly does “frost seeding” mean?
In late winter, frozen ground expands and creates small cracks and openings in the soil. As temperatures warm during the day, the ground thaws and contracts. This repeated freeze-thaw cycle — common in February and March in many regions — naturally works seed into the soil.
Clover seed is small, which makes it perfect for this method. When broadcast over frozen ground, the freeze-thaw action pulls the seed into the soil — similar to what happens when you till and plant traditionally in spring or fall.
As temperatures consistently warm, the seed germinates, already positioned in the soil with solid contact and a head start on root development.
The best part? Frost seeding doesn’t need to be complicated. Don’t overthink it. If you get seed out earlier than planned, don’t stress — it will lie dormant until conditions are right.
Frost-seeding clover isn’t only for establishing brand-new plots. It’s also one of the best ways to:
Clover greens up early in the spring, making it an excellent draw for turkeys — and a great place to set up during turkey season.
And when fall rolls around? That’s when clover truly shines.
During bow season, I always say, “Green is king.” When other vegetation turns brown and fades away, clover remains a vibrant, high-value food source. That late-season green can make all the difference — and it just might help you tag your next target buck.