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Hairy Vetch

Hairy Vetch is primarily used as an erosion control aid. Planting it along embankments will improve stabilization and soil quality. When this vetch is grown as a green manure cover crop it will, through nitrogen fixation, add nitrogen to the soil. Hairy Vetch is also commonly grown as a forage legume in pastures; it has a high tread durability and provides 40 to 50 inches of grazing material late in the spring season. It can be planted in soils that are acidic, but it grows slowly so it will not provide a large amount of ground cover in the months after it is planted. Hairy Vetch is more tolerant of shade than many of the other vetches. It should be planted at a maximum soil depth of 3/4".

*Note: Hairy Vetch should be seeded at a rate of 1-3 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Or 40 to 60 pounds per acre.

Product Details:

  • Product Name: Hairy Vetch
  • Latin Name: Vicia villosa
  • Type: Forage Legume
  • Cycle: Annual
  • Origin: Introduced
  • Height: 36-72"
  • Bloom Season: Summer
  • Seeds Per Pound: 110,500
  • Seeding Rate (lbs./acre): 60

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*Planting and Bloom Season. Please remember that Planting and Bloom seasons will differ for each variety depending on the location and climate conditions where they are being planted. Please refer to the USDA Plant Hardiness Map provided in our FAQ section for specifics on how to determine the best time of year to plant for your specific situation. The information provided below is based on experienced agricultural practices throughout the Willamette Valley of Oregon and is applicable to Zones 7-10 only.