vegetation is sprayed when it is actively growing. Do not spray when the vegetation is under any drought stress, or just prior to a predicted rainfall. Spray under light wind conditions, which normally occur early in the morning or late in the evening, so that you have the best control of the spray pattern.
It is best to have a way to see where you have sprayed to ensure an even application without large missed "streaks", and to prevent excessive waste from overspraying. Strips that have been sprayed can be marked with string, flagging, etc. If the area is sprayed early in the morning it should be possible to see where you have walked in the dew. It may also be possible to purchase a colored dye or foam product to add to the tank to mark where you have sprayed. Don't worry about leaving some small unsprayed strips between spray lines, as these strips can provide some cover and diversity for smaller animals.
It will surprise you how much area can be sprayed very quickly with a backpack sprayer. The size that the food plot will need to be will depend on the wildlife population and the other available food in the area. Try to plant at least ½ acre (can be in several plots close by) to prevent overgrazing and destruction of the plot prior to establishment.
By the middle of September your future food plot should have "browned up" from the herbicide application and most of the vegetation should appear brown. Control of competing vegetation ensures that water and nutrients will be available for your food plot. Depending on location and soil type the plot should be planted between mid September and mid October.
Crimson clover can then be broadcast over the plot at a rate of approximately 20 pounds per acre. Crimson clover is a cool season annual, unlike the more popular perennial ladino or white clovers. Because it is an annual plant it is more aggressive in sprouting and becoming established quickly. It
Pictured Above - Crimson clover
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