Hairy Vetch Ecotypes

Harbur, M.M., C.C. Sheaffer, K.M. Moncada, and D.L. Wyse.  2009.  Selecting hairy vetch ecotypes for winter hardiness in Minnesota.  Online. Crop Management doi:10.1094/CM-2009-0831-01-RS.

Abstract

Hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) has potential to be a beneficial winter cover crop, but it does not reliably overwinter in the Upper Midwest. The winter hardiness of selected hairy vetch ecotypes was determined under Minnesota growing conditions. Twelve populations originating from eight different states, including four populations from Minnesota, were evaluated for establishment, winter survival, and spring biomass. Minnesota ecotypes had greater winterhardiness compared to the non-Minnesota ecotypes. Producers in Minnesota should purchase and use locally grown seed to minimize th eir risk of stand loss when using hairy vetch as a winter cover crop. There is a need to develop hairy vetch varieties thatare reliably winter hardy throughout Minnesota.

Getting Help

For more information about this project, please contact:

Dr. Jacob Jungers

Assistant Professor, Agronomy and Plant Genetics

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (612) 625-0210

Our team