Winter Vetch, Hairy Vetch

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 1 to 2 meters in height, presenting Pinnate leaves with 3-7 pairs of leaflets; compound and alternately arranged along with Purple to violet flowers, racemose inflorescence, followed by Long, slender pods containing several seeds, seeds are small, round, and light brown. These features are supported by a reliable Deep taproot with a fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to Europe and Asia, widely naturalized elsewhere, Winter Vetch, Hairy Vetch thrives in Grows in a wide range of soils, thriving in cool temperate regions at elevations around Sea level to about 2,000 meters. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 3 to 10. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Winter Vetch, Hairy Vetch, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Prefers well-drained, loamy to sandy soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 7.5.

Winter Vetch, Hairy Vetch needs watering,Moderate; tolerant of both wet and dry conditions, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Moist but well-drained soil, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Drip irrigation or regular watering in dry periods supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Winter Vetch, Hairy Vetch performs best within 5 C to 30 C (41 F to 86 F). Its ideal growth occurs at around 15 C to 20 C (59 F to 68 F), though it tolerates ranges from Minimal frost tolerance; can survive freezes but optimal growth occurs in cooler temperatures. Additionally, maintaining Moderate humidity is preferred encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced fertilizer or legumes’ natural nitrogen-fixing capabilities at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or aged manure can be beneficial enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Generally not required; can cut back before blooming for better growth for N/A tidies its appearance, while Not typically needed as it is sown directly in the field may be necessary as it grows, requiring a N/A increase and a fresh N/A. for Staking or Support. Requires support if grown in very rich soil due to vigorous growth.

During Winter dormancy; growth resumes in early spring, growth may slow and some Leaves may die back in winter can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation is common and provide Place seeds into soil at least 1-2 inches deep; requires moist conditions when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Generally not propagated through cuttings to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWinter Vetch, Hairy Vetch problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, cutworms and remain vigilant against Root rot, powdery mildew. Implementing Crop rotation, good air circulation, avoid overcrowding and applying Insecticides for pests; fungicides for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Suitable companions include rye, oats, and clover and shows Can inhibit growth of certain plants if grown too close, making it a flexible choice for various Used as green manure and cover crop; beneficial for improving soil structure.

the Edible Parts: Green parts can be used when young and tender. Toxicty of Winter Vetch, Hairy Vetch, Non-toxic, however, large amounts may cause digestive issues. learning about its Cut before flowering for forage; can also harvest seeds when pods mature, Used as forage for livestock; seeds can be used in soups or stews in small quantities, and Rich in protein; contains various vitamins and minerals can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Historically used as a mild astringent; not widely known for medicinal properties or note its Traditionally grown as a cover crop to improve soil health.

With an Not evaluated, proper Promoted for sustainable agricultural practices