The Trophy Clover Mix Made a Bold First Impression
The Trophy Clover Mix from Antler King promises a hardy and long-lasting perennial food plot. Its blend of four clover varieties, chicory, and rape seed aims to provide deer with a high-protein diet. I was intrigued by the potential for a low-maintenance, high-yield food plot solution.
I’ve spent years experimenting with different food plot blends, searching for that sweet spot between ease of establishment and long-term attraction. Many mixes I’ve tried were either too finicky or simply didn’t last. The Trophy Clover Mix’s promise of a perennial mix was a key selling point.
The bag arrived well-sealed. The mix itself looked uniform, with a good distribution of seed sizes and colors. Visually, it appeared to be a high-quality blend.
Compared to a standard clover mix I used last year and a brassica blend I tried the year before, this mix seemed to offer a more balanced approach. The clover provides protein, the chicory offers drought resistance, and the rape seed offers early-season attraction. I picked the Trophy Clover Mix hoping for a longer lasting and more diverse food source.
My initial impression was positive. The mix appeared well-formulated. I was optimistic about its potential to establish quickly and provide a reliable food source for the deer on my property.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trophy Clover Mix to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Trophy Clover Mix on a half-acre plot in late spring. The soil was well-prepared, and the weather cooperated with consistent rainfall after planting. I followed the recommended seeding rate, broadcasting the mix and lightly raking it into the soil.
The Trophy Clover Mix performed admirably in slightly acidic soil. The seed germinated quickly, and within a few weeks, a lush carpet of green covered the plot. The different components of the mix seemed to establish at roughly the same rate.
The ease of use was a major plus. The mix was easy to broadcast and required minimal effort to establish. There were no surprises. The Trophy Clover Mix performed as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of use, the Trophy Clover Mix has held up remarkably well. The plot is still thriving, providing a consistent food source for the deer.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. Even under heavy grazing pressure, the clover and chicory have remained vigorous. The rape seed has mostly been consumed, but the other components are continuing to flourish.
Maintenance is minimal. I’ve only mowed the plot once to control weeds, and it requires no fertilization thanks to the clover’s nitrogen-fixing abilities. The Trophy Clover Mix outperforms any other food plot mix I’ve used in terms of longevity and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Trophy Clover Mix
Specifications
The Trophy Clover Mix is composed of:
- Four perennial varieties of clover, ensuring long-lasting appeal and protein production. This diversity helps the plot withstand varying conditions and grazing pressure.
- A unique variety of chicory, known for its drought resistance and mineral content. Chicory provides a valuable food source during dry periods and contributes to overall deer health.
- A variety of rape seed, offering a quick-growing and highly attractive early-season food source. Rape seed provides immediate attraction while the clover and chicory establish.
- The mix is designed to provide a 30%+ protein diet for deer. This high protein content promotes antler growth and overall deer health.
- It can be planted in the spring or fall. This flexibility allows for planting based on regional climate and personal preference.
These specifications are crucial for providing a well-balanced and long-lasting food plot. The combination of different plants ensures consistent attraction and nutritional value throughout the growing season.
Performance & Functionality
The Trophy Clover Mix performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It reliably attracts deer and provides them with a high-quality food source.
Its strength lies in its longevity and ease of maintenance. A potential weakness is its dependence on adequate moisture during establishment. It meets my expectations, delivering a consistent and reliable food plot solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The blend is well-balanced. The seed sizes are fairly uniform for even distribution. The mix is easy to handle.
The mix requires no specialized knowledge or equipment to plant. This makes it user-friendly for both experienced and novice food plotters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Trophy Clover Mix is designed to last for several years as a perennial plot. With minimal maintenance, it should provide a reliable food source for 3-5 years or more.
Maintenance is simple, mainly consisting of occasional mowing to control weeds. There’s no need for fertilization, further simplifying the upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trophy Clover Mix itself doesn’t require any specific accessories. Soil testing and amendment (if needed) are always recommended.
The plot can be enhanced with strategically placed mineral licks or attractants. This can further increase its attractiveness to deer. It is compatible with most standard food plot management practices.
Pros and Cons of Trophy Clover Mix
Pros
- Long-lasting perennial mix, providing a food source for several years.
- High protein content, promoting antler growth and overall deer health.
- Easy to establish and maintain, requiring minimal effort and resources.
- Drought-resistant chicory component, ensuring food availability during dry periods.
- Versatile planting options, suitable for both spring and fall planting.
Cons
- Requires adequate moisture during establishment.
- May need weed control during the initial stages of growth.
Who Should Buy Trophy Clover Mix?
- Perfect for: Hunters looking for a low-maintenance, long-term food plot solution; Land managers aiming to improve deer habitat; Property owners wanting to attract and hold deer on their land.
- Who should skip this product? Those seeking a quick, short-term food plot; Individuals with extremely poor soil conditions that cannot be amended.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Soil test kit; Lime or fertilizer (if soil test indicates a need); Broadcast spreader.
Conclusion on Trophy Clover Mix
The Trophy Clover Mix from Antler King is a solid choice for anyone looking to establish a long-lasting and beneficial food plot. Its blend of clover, chicory, and rape seed provides a balanced diet for deer. This promotes antler growth and overall health.
At $22.99, the price is justified. The longevity and ease of maintenance of this mix makes it a worthwhile investment.
I would definitely recommend it. The Trophy Clover Mix is a reliable and effective way to attract and hold deer on your property, making it a valuable tool for any hunter or land manager. Invest in your land, invest in the Trophy Clover Mix, and see the results for yourself!