Meadow Vetchling
vicia tetrasperma
Also known as: ["Spring Vetchling","Four-seeded Vetch"]
Overview
A slender, annual legume with bright green leaves and small, yellow flowers, often found in meadows and grasslands.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Vicia |
| Botanical Name: | Vicia tetrasperma |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging; avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler spring and fall conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy; use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer for leafy growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or cessation of growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or dormancy in temperatures below 50°F (10°C); prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in temperatures above 85°F (29°C); flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume Vicia tetrasperma seeds or young pods. The plant contains compounds that can irritate the digestive tract and cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Vicia tetrasperma seeds or young pods may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of lectins and other plant compounds. These compounds can cause irritation to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVicia tetrasperma contains lectins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The lectins may interfere with nutrient absorption and cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Meadow Vetchling toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Meadow Vetchling attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Q: Is Meadow Vetchling difficult to grow?
A: No, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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