Hala fruit

Hairy Vetch (Vicia villosa), also known as winter vetch or woolly vetch, is a type of legume native to Europe and western Asia. It is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil and its use as a cover crop.

Description

Hairy vetch is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has a deep root system that helps it to survive in dry conditions. The leaves are pinnate, with 10-20 pairs of leaflets, and the flowers are purple or blue, appearing in the late spring and early summer.

Cultivation

Hairy vetch is often used as a cover crop in organic farming due to its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. This makes it a valuable tool for improving soil fertility and structure. It is also used as a green manure, being plowed into the soil to increase its organic matter content.

Uses

In addition to its use in agriculture, hairy vetch is also used for erosion control, as its deep root system helps to stabilize the soil. It is also used as a forage crop for livestock, and its seeds are sometimes used as a food source for birds.

Environmental Impact

Hairy vetch has been known to become invasive in some areas, particularly in North America, where it can outcompete native plant species. However, its benefits as a cover crop and nitrogen fixer often outweigh these potential drawbacks.

See Also

• Cover crop
• Green manure
• Legume
• Nitrogen fixation