The procedure was repeated through many breeding cycles until one hybrid that contained all the desired characteristics was developed. The result, Advantage Ladino Clover, has been the back bone of Imperial Whitetail Clover blend for many years.  In 2004, The Whitetail Institute completed research and testing of another new clover variety, which was again developed by The Whitetail Institute specifically for use in whitetail food plots.  This new clover, Insight Ladino Clover, is highly drought-resistant and has been added as an additional component of the Imperial Whitetail Clover blend. (An excellent article about Insight is available for review on-line at http://www.whitetailinstitute.com/info/news/apr05/9.html.)

It was this hybridization process that gave Imperial Whitetail Clover the traits that are unmatched by other clovers.  Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a “typical” clover - there are literally hundreds of different types of clover, and each has its own specific characteristics.  Some are sweet, and some are bitter.  Some grow quickly, and some grow slowly.  Some are higher in nutrients than others.  There are some clovers that deer won’t even touch.  The take-home message is that all clovers are different, and you cannot simply buy “clover” and expect it to perform well as a deer food plot.  You may as well walk into a boat store and simply tell them you want to buy “a boat.”   You may have wanted a ski boat, but what you may end up with is a houseboat instead.  Both are boats, and both will keep you out of the water, but each has its own specific traits.

So, exactly what are the traits that have made Imperial Whitetail Clover the No. 1 food plot blend in the world?   First, Imperial Whitetail Clover has a much higher nutrient content than other clovers.  The protein content of clovers generally ranges from 13%, or lower, to 25%.  In contrast, Imperial Clover averages up to 30% to 35% protein.  Of equal importance, Imperial Whitetail Clover holds its high-protein content throughout the entire year.  The protein content of other clovers can drop significantly at different points in their growth cycles, and this can be detrimental to antler growth and lactation.  Furthermore, some clovers such as red clover must flower for reproductive purposes, a process that heavily robs the plant of energy and nutrient content.  Because Imperial Clover stays alive through its root system and does not have to reseed itself, it does not loose energy and nutrients from heavy flowering.