Common vetch (Vicia sativa)

Also known as: Summer vetch

**Common vetch (Vicia sativa)**, also known simply as vetch, tare, or garden vetch, is an annual herb often regarded as a weed. However, it is widely used for green manure and as animal feed for livestock. For agricultural use, it is typically sown densely in fields.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Common vetch

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Vine, Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

15 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

1 cm to 3 cm

Flower Color

Pink Purple

Images of Common vetch

Quickly Identify Common vetch

Slender climbing stem, reaching 2 feet (60 cm) with tendrils for support.

Pinnate leaves with 5-6 pairs of narrow leaflets, 3-5 inches (7.6-12.7 cm) long.

Pea-shaped flowers in pairs, with broad upper petal and oval lateral petals.

Legume-type fruit with 4-8 seeds, pods explosively open for seed dispersal.

Green to blackish hued fruit pods, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, containing viable seeds.

Scientific Classification of Common vetch

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Vetches

Species

Common vetch

Planting and Growing of Common vetch

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 6 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Common vetch?

Vicia sativa prefers consistent moisture, which means the soil should be kept moist without being waterlogged. Aim to give about 500 ml of water per session, ensuring it's enough to penetrate to the root zone but not so much that it creates standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Common vetch? ›

What should I do if my Common vetch is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Common vetch? ›

How to save an overwatered Common vetch? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Common vetch?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Vicia sativa prefers full sun conditions, thriving in open areas with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. Appropriate light levels enhance growth rate, seed production, and overall plant strength, contributing to optimal agricultural yields.

How much sunlight does Vicia sativa need? ›

Why is sunlight important for Vicia sativa? ›

What are the benefits of optimal light for Vicia sativa? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Common vetch?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Vicia sativa, commonly known as common vetch, thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This range supports optimal growth, allowing the plant to efficiently carry out photosynthesis and other physiological processes. It's essential to maintain consistent temperatures within this range to ensure robust plant development and avoid stress-related issues.

What Soil is Best for Common vetch?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Vicia sativa thrives in well-draining soil which prevents waterlogging. This is essential for healthy root development and prevents diseases caused by excess moisture. The plant benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate, supporting vigorous growth and high yield. A balanced mix of organic matter enhances soil fertility, promoting robust plant health. While drainage is important, soil should also retain some moisture. This helps maintain steady hydration of the plant, supporting consistent growth.

How to Fertilize Common vetch?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Vicia sativa, commonly known as common vetch, benefits from moderate fertilization. Both liquid and solid fertilizers can be applied, but the key is balance. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can hinder root development and cause lanky growth. A measurement of 100 grams per square meter for solid fertilizers is optimal, while a diluted solution at half the recommended rate is ideal for liquid options.

How to Prune Common vetch?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing any dead or diseased stems to prevent the spread of pathogens. Cut back to a healthy section, ensuring any brown or rotting stems are completely removed. For Vicia sativa, aim to create a balanced shape with even distribution of foliage. Focus on cutting back overlong stems that disrupt the plant's symmetry, trimming them back to just above a pair of healthy leaves. To prevent this plant from taking over your garden, keep its growth in check by trimming back around one-third of the newest growth monthly during peak growing seasons to maintain a manageable size.

How to Propagate Common vetch plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Fill the seed trays with a well-draining potting mix, leaving a small gap at the top. Lightly water the soil to settle it and eliminate large air pockets. This step ensures the seeds have immediate contact with soil when planted.

Evenly distribute vetch seeds across the soil surface and lightly cover them with a thin layer of potting mix. Avoid burying them too deeply as light coverage aids in proper germination. Be sure to water lightly after sowing.

Place the seed trays in a warm, well-lit area. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. If necessary, cover the trays with a clear plastic lid to create a mini greenhouse effect, enhancing humidity and warmth.

How to Repot Common vetch plant?

Repotting frequency: Annually or biannually

Repotting time is crucial for Vicia sativa to avoid stressing the plant. The best indication for repotting is when you notice roots protruding from the drainage holes or when the soil dries out more quickly than usual. Typically, late spring or early summer is ideal as the plant is hitting its stride in growth, allowing it to acclimate smoothly in its new pot.

Select a pot that is just one size larger than the current one to prevent waterlogging. A pot with a well-placed drainage hole is essential to keep the soil from becoming too wet, which helps in reducing the risk of root rot. The material of the pot should be considered as well; terra cotta pots can aid in moisture control, making them a desirable choice for this legume.

For Vicia sativa, opt for a well-draining potting mix. A blend containing equal parts loam, compost, and perlite or coarse sand can facilitate proper root aeration and prevent water retention, providing the ideal conditions for a legume that thrives on modest moisture levels.

Toxicity of Common vetch

Is Common vetch toxic to humans?

Common vetch predominantly presents a threat to children. The seeds harbor a cyanide compound that, upon contact with stomach acid, releases cyanide gas. It is this gas that inflicts harm. Consuming an adequate amount can lead to severe respiratory and cardiac issues that may result in fatalities. Reduced quantities may induce symptoms such as vomiting, colic, headaches, chest tightness, agitation, muscle weakness, and convulsions. Even minute amounts of cyanide can be lethal.

Is Common vetch toxic to cat?

Common vetch presents a mild toxicity hazard to cats. The main risk originates from the seeds of common vetch, which can lead to poisoning if ingested in significant quantities. When a cat consumes these seeds, it may suffer physical discomfort and exhibit symptoms of illness that suggest internal distress. Although the toxicity is mild, ingestion should not be underestimated. If a cat has eaten common vetch seeds, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to safeguard their health and manage any possible complications.

Is Common vetch toxic to dog?

Common vetch carries a mild toxicity risk for dogs, especially when they consume large quantities of the plant. The main concern lies with the seeds, which are considered the toxic components of common vetch. Dogs that eat significant numbers of these seeds may show signs of poisoning. Although the specific toxic compounds are not specified, dog owners should be alert for symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, or more severe clinical manifestations based on the quantity consumed. If any dog is suspected of being poisoned by common vetch, seeking immediate veterinary advice is crucial to secure appropriate treatment and management of the situation.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.