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Hay Production of Hairy Vetch
Late April to early May is optimum planting date to achieve the highest forage yield. Hairy vetch seed is round and considered large for a legume forage crop (about 1/3 the size of a soybean). Due to the large seed size, hairy vetch can be seeded with any type of seeding equipment. A firm seedbed is desired when seeding into tilled soil, however hairy vetch can be seeded directly into standing residue. The optimal seeding rate for hairy vetch is 15 to 20 pounds/acre. Seeding ten pounds won't yield less in forage, however, it will be less competitive with weeds early in the season. A seeding depth of 3/4 inch to 1 inch is recommended.
Hairy vetch has good seedling vigor and seedlings are very competitive against weeds once established. Hairy vetch doesn't need a companion crop to get established. However, when seeded with traditional forages such as oats, the forage quality will increase. Seeded early, hairy vetch in June and July will protect against erosion and provide good cover for nesting wildlife.
If seeded in early May, hairy vetch will begin to bloom by July. Hairy vetch flowers are purple in color. The best time to cut for hay is mid to late July when the vetch is in the early bloom stage. Once cut, hairy vetch has re-growth potential in which can be grazed at a later date or undercut to provide soil protection and snow catch.
Presently, seed sources are limited (seed has been available from the Cenex Seed Plant in Minot. Estimated seed cost for hairy vetch is $12-18/acre.
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