Hairy Vetch

Hairy vetch is an excellent nitrogen producing cover crop. It works well ahead of corn and can be mixed with other cover crops.
hairy vetch, crimson clover, and balansa clover provide cover for the ground and nitrogen for the soil

Hairy vetch is a late summer-seeded nitrogen-fixing biennial legume, capable of producing 100 lbs./acre of N or more, depending on conditions.

Seeding Rate (lbs. / acre)

  • Drill: 18-20
  • Broadcast: 25-30
  • In a mix: 8-15

– Planting depth: 1/8”–1/4”
– Approximate seeds/lb: 16,000
– Days to germination: 7–10

Hairy Vetch Benefits & Info

  • Hairy vetch is a strong nitrogen producer
  • An excellent choice for phosphorus scavenging, weed suppression, and soil improvement
  • Needs 5-6 weeks of growth in the fall to overwinter; snow cover improves winter tolerance
  • Great cover crop option when mixed with small grains or annual ryegrass
  • Tolerates poor soil environments, low fertility, and low pH (5.5–7.5)
  • Keep off poorly drained soils
  • Low C:N ratio – quick decay and mineralization
  • Villana™ variety produces almost no hard seed and brings increased winterhardiness
  • WATCH OUT – possible association with increased soybean cyst nematode/root-knot nematode
  • WATCH OUT – common varieties often contain hard seed and can emerge in the future

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