Vetch (Vicia sativa) is a short lived nitrogen fixing legume that competes well with weeds by forming a dense canopy quickly. Important green manure and fodder crop. 250g
Sow Months: Mar-OctField Rate: 75-100kg/ha (Depending on objective)Horticulture Rate: 250g covers 25m²- N-fixer.
- Produces a lot of bulky foliage that suppresses weeds.
- Will add organic matter and improves the texture of the soil.
- Grows best with a support plant - e.g. Phacelia, Sunflower, Westerwolds or Rye.
- Will attract bees if allowed to flower.
- Crop residues are succulent and decompose quickly.
- Best not to top as it does not recover well from cutting.
- Allelopathic effect - be careful if planning on direct sowing crops after incorporation.
How to sow green manures:
- Prepare a reasonable seed bed.
- Broadcast you seeds.
- If you have a large area to cover it is a good idea to divide the seed and the land into 4 parts to avoid running out of seed.
- Rake in and water if soil is dry.
