Hairy Vetch

Vicia villosa Sow seed late August to mid-October. One of the more popular and aggressive legumes and a good companion crop for the cereal grasses. Hairy Vetch can enrich the soil with 60120 pounds of nitrogen per acre. Tolerant of acidic soils, shade, and low temperatures. Hardy down to 10F if planted early so that it is well established before winter sets in. If planted by itself, it can reach a height of 1220 inches. It can be tilled under in the spring as with other green manures, or you can simply cut or mow to the ground (and keep cut) and plant your tomatoes and peppers. To avoid re-seeding, turn the crop under at or before flowering. Recommended seeding rate: 1 pound per 1000 square feet; 2540 pounds per acre.

Available only in the contiguous US.