Direct answer: for clover food plots, choose selective herbicides that target grasses or broadleaf weeds without harming clover. The following products are designed to fit clover or mixed forage plots and are suited for deer habitat management. This guide explains who each product is best for, how to use them, and potential limitations. A quick summary table follows to help compare key points at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Whitetail Institute Arrest Max Selective Grass Control (1 Pt) | Deer food plots needing grass control in clover/forage mixes | Controls a broad range of grasses; safe with clover/alfalfa |
| Whitetail Institute Slay Selective Broad-Leaf Weed Control (4 Oz) | Broadleaf weeds in deer plots | Spray timing matters; compatible with plot machinery |
| Butyrac 200 (2,4-DB) Herbicide (1 Gal) | Broadleaf weed control in alfalfa and similar forage | Targeted for broadleaf control; avoid near non-target grasses |
| Clethodim 2E (2.5 Gallons) | Grass control in mixed plots | Best for grasses; careful near desirable grasses |
| Agrisel GrassOut Max Weed Killer (32 Oz) | Wide range of grassy and broadleaf weeds; large areas | Kills grass; proximity to lawns or turf requires caution |
Whitetail Institute Arrest Max Selective Grass Control (1 Pt)
Product overview: This herbicide is specifically developed for food plots and is designed to control a broad range of annual and perennial grasses. It is noted as safe for use with Whitetail Institute perennial forages and with clover or alfalfa plantings. Best for buyers managing deer plots that include clover and want to reduce grass competition. Best for property owners who prioritize keeping clover-dominant plots while removing competing grasses. A limitation to consider: follow label directions to avoid affecting non-target grasses in adjacent areas.
Whitetail Institute Slay Selective Broad-Leaf Weed Control (4 Oz)
Product overview: Slay is tailored for food plots and targets broadleaf weeds. It’s designed to be applied during spring or early summer as broadleaf weeds emerge and begin growth. Best for plots with clover where broadleaf weeds threaten forage quality. It is convenient to apply with standard machinery like a four-wheeler or tractor sprayer. A caution: ensure weed species are the ones listed on the label and avoid spraying on non-target broadleaf plants you want to preserve.
Butyrac 200 Herbicide (2,4-DB) (1 Gal)
Product overview: Butyrac 200 provides broadleaf weed control in alfalfa and related forage systems, making it a fit for plots with clover and alfalfa mixes. Best for those targeting specific broadleaf competition without stressing grass components. A limitation: it focuses on broadleaf weeds, so you may still need separate grass control if grasses threaten your clover plot in other seasons.
Clethodim 2E Herbicide (2.5 Gallons)
Product overview: Clethodim 2E provides grass control in mixed forage plots, making it a practical option when grasses are competing with clover and other forages. Best for buyers who need to reduce grass competition to boost clover establishment and growth. Limitation: effectiveness depends on timing; apply when grasses are actively growing but before they outcompete the forage plants.
Agrisel GrassOut Max Weed Killer (16 Oz)
Product overview: GrassOut Max targets over 50 grassy and broadleaf weeds and is marketed as pet-safe with careful application. It suits larger plots and landscapes where grass and weed pressure is high. Buy with awareness that this product kills grass; use away from desirable turf or ornamental grasses in nearby areas. Best for buyers managing bigger clover or food plot expanses where broad weed control is needed.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Target weed types: Identify whether grasses, broadleaf weeds, or both dominate your clover food plots, and pick a product accordingly.
- Plot size and application: Large plots may benefit from higher-volume formulations; consider equipment compatibility (sprayer type,Calibration).
- Impact on clover and forages: Choose selective herbicides that minimize harm to clover, alfalfa, or other desired forages.
- Timing and growth stage: Many products require application when weeds are actively growing; early spring and early summer windows are common.
- Safety and surroundings: Note cautions about nearby lawns, ornamental plants, or pets. Follow label directions precisely.
FAQ
- Q: Can I use these herbicides on a plot that includes clover and alfalfa?
A: Yes, several products are designed for food plots and claim compatibility with clover and alfalfa plantings when applied as directed. - Q: Which product is best for grasses in a clover plot?
A: Arrest Max and Clethodim 2E are commonly chosen for grass control in mixed forage plots. - Q: Which product should I choose for mainly broadleaf weeds?
A: Slay is specifically designed for broadleaf weeds in deer plots. - Q: Are there any cautions about applying near desirable grasses?
A: Yes, several products note potential damage to nearby grasses; avoid drift and follow label guidance. - Q: Do these products require special application equipment?
A: Some formulations are designed for tractor or four-wheeler sprayers; check the product label for application requirements. - Q: Should I use a single product or a mix for our clover food plot?
A: A combination approach is sometimes used—one product targeting grasses and another targeting broadleaf weeds—provided label compatibility is confirmed.