| Species: |
Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) |
| Cultivars: |
‘AU Olympic’ (from Alabama) |
| Origin: |
Mediterranean region |
| Use: |
Grazing, pasture |
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| Description: |
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General:
Life Span:
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2-3 feet tall; vine, tendrils; usually two purple flowers in axil of leaves.
Annual
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| Adaptation: |
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Distribution:
pH:
Soil:
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Widely distributed in the USA.
5.5-7.5
Loam, sandy-clay-loam.
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| Management: |
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Seeding Rate:
Planting Date:
Planting Depth:
Seed Cost:
Season of Use:
Production: |
30-35 lb/A
September-October
0.25-0.5 inch
$15-18/A
March-May
2000-4000 lbs/A |
| Notes: |
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- Moderate bloat potential.
- Vetches lack grazing tolerance - best utilized if rotationally grazed.
- Inoculate with Rhizobia bacteria specific to vetch (Type C)
- Cattle grazing pure stands develop a dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) similar to photosensitization.
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Ag Programs » Forages of Texas - North Central » Species