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Centra Sota Cooperative A Day in the Life Cover Crop Series: Hairy Vetch

Cover Crop Series: Hairy Vetch

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Cover Crop Series: Hairy Vetch

  • hpoppler
  • Nov 4, 2024
  • 1 min read

Updated: Mar 3, 2025

Here’s your weekly cover crop update! Every week, we introduce a new cover crop species, offering insights on planting and discussing benefits. This week, we’re spotlighting Hairy Vetch!

Hairy Vetch

Planting Details:

  • Should be planted between April 15th to September 1st north of interstate 94.

  • The minimum germination temperature for planting is 60 degrees F.

  • Planting rate should be 15-23 lbs./acre and planted 1/2-1 1/2″ deep.

  • Seeds/lb.: 12,000-16,000

About Hairy Vetch:

  • A member of the legume family.

  • It is tolerant of a variety of soil conditions including low fertility environments.

  • Winter hardy cover crop options.

  • Offers a variety of soil health benefits.

Benefits:

Quick Decomposition

  • Hairy vetch decomposes quickly after termination.

  • Low C:N ratio allows for quick plant decay and capture of organic material and nutrients.

Soil Health

  • Produces up to 200 lbs of nitrogen, and enhances soil organic matter.

  • Scavenges phosphorus for greater availability.

  • Heavy mulch layer provides excellent weed suppression and prevents erosion.

Interested in learning more about crops or find info on how to get started?
Visit our Cover Crops page
, or Contact our Environmental Services team at
[email protected]