🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Common vetch is primarily used as a green manure cover crop for soil improvement. It fixes nitrogen in the soil, suppresses weeds, and provides organic matter when tilled in. It can also be used as animal fodder. Edible when young, but not widely consumed by humans due to potential toxicity if eaten in large quantities. Some cultivars are bred for specific purposes like improved nitrogen fixation or biomass production.
Permapeople description
Common vetch (Vicia sativa) is a flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a legume, meaning it is a member of the pea family. The plant has compound leaves that are made up of several small leaflets, and it produces small, purple or white flowers. The stem of the plant is typically covered in fine hairs.
In terms of size and growth rate, common vetch can grow to be anywhere from 8 to 40 inches tall and can spread to about 16 inches wide. It is a fast-growing plant, and it can be differentiated from similar plants by its hairy stem and compound leaves.
Common vetch prefers well-draining, fertile soil and full sun. In order to cultivate it successfully, a grower may need to provide the plant with adequate water and nutrients. It is winter hardy and can tolerate frost.
Common vetch is not edible for humans, but it can be used as a cover crop or forage for livestock. It can also be used as a nitrogen-fixing companion plant in vegetable gardens. It is not known to have any medicinal uses.
In terms of its value for wildlife, common vetch can provide food and shelter for a variety of insects, birds, and small mammals. It is a popular plant for bees and butterflies, and it can attract a range of beneficial insects to the garden.
Botanical description
Vicia sativa is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae (legume) family. It has weak, sprawling stems that can reach up to 3 feet in length. The leaves are pinnately compound with 4-8 pairs of leaflets and terminate in tendrils. The flowers are pea-like, typically purple or violet, and are borne in small clusters of 1-2. The fruit is a flattened pod containing several seeds. Vicia sativa prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
Companion planting
Generally considered a good companion plant for many crops due to its nitrogen-fixing abilities. It can be beneficial when planted with grains, brassicas, and other vegetables. Avoid planting near alliums, which may inhibit its growth.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through sowing seeds directly into the soil. Seeds should be scarified or soaked in water to improve germination. It can also self-seed under favorable conditions.
History and traditions
Common vetch has been cultivated for centuries as a forage crop and green manure. Its use dates back to ancient times in Europe and Asia. It was traditionally used as animal feed and to improve soil fertility. Some historical medicinal uses are documented, but not widely practiced today.
Usage calendar
Sowing: Spring or Fall. Flowering: Spring to Summer. Harvesting (for green manure): Before seed set. Pruning: Not typically pruned, but can be cut back to encourage branching.