Hairy Winter Vetch

Winter hairy vetch is a vigorous annual legume crop used for fixing nitrogen, biomass production and enhancing organic matter. It is slow to establish but an excellent choice for green manure. Its low carbon to nitrogen ratio (C:N) allows for quick plant decay and even quicker capture of nutrients in the soil profile. Hairy vetch tends to be tolerant of variable soil conditions, including low fertility environments, and prefers soil pH 5.5 – 7.5. Hairy vetch will overwinter in many areas of the country (USDA Zone 3 - 4) withstanding temperatures down to -25 to -30°F, especially where snow is likely.