Hairy Vetch
vicia hirsuta
Also known as: ["Tiny Vetch","Hairy tare"]
Overview
A small, annual legume with hairy stems and leaves, producing small, pea-like flowers and pods.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Vicia |
| Botanical Name: | Vicia hirsuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove spent flowers or damaged growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing some afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates light frost but avoids prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize lightly to avoid leggy growth; stop fertilizing in winter; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly in a seed tray.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings once they develop true leaves.
- Transplant to individual pots or garden beds.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, bright location with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed-starting mix or a mix of sand and peat moss.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks under optimal conditions; plants establish within a few months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, seed-starting mix, watering can, labels.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups to ensure germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth for faster germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing stems at the base; pinch back leggy growth to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is required. Focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged stems; avoid over-pruning; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Generally, repotting every 2–3 years is sufficient.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently; avoid fertilizing during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid overfertilization; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the seeds of Vicia hirsuta. The toxicity is generally low, but cats are more susceptible to digestive disturbances from plant materials.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Vicia hirsuta can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The toxicity is generally low, but dogs with sensitive stomachs may experience more pronounced symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVicia hirsuta contains small amounts of toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The toxicity is generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitive digestive systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vicia hirsuta edible?
A: While it is not commonly consumed, it is technically edible but may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Q: Does Vicia hirsuta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and seeds.
Q: Is Vicia hirsuta invasive?
A: It can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and self-seeding nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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