Organic Purple Vetch - Raw Seed (lb)

Organic Purple Vetch is a vigorous cool-season legume for growers who want substantial spring growth rather than a low, restrained cover. Vicia atropurpurea develops trailing and climbing stems that can reach approximately 3 feet, creating a dense stand that competes with weeds and produces nitrogen-rich material for green manure.

This vetch performs best in mild-winter regions where temperatures generally remain above approximately 20°F. It can be planted across a broad seasonal window in mild climates and often continues growing later into spring than other vetches. Purple vetch will tolerate relatively poor soil, but stronger fertility—particularly adequate phosphorus—supports better growth and nitrogen fixation. It pairs well with oats or another cereal that gives the vines physical support and contributes carbon-rich residue.

Because this is raw seed, inoculate it before planting. Effective nodulation is essential if nitrogen fixation is one of the planting goals. Purple vetch tolerates mowing or managed grazing, but repeated close cutting can reduce vigor. For green manure, terminate before mature seed develops and while the vines are still practical to mow or incorporate. In orchards or vineyards, monitor climbing growth so it does not interfere with young trees, vines, irrigation equipment, or access through the rows.

• Scientific Name: Vicia atropurpurea
• Growth Cycle: Vigorous cool-season annual legume
• Application Rate: 1–3 lb per 1,000 sq ft or 40–60 lb per acre
• Inoculant: Strongly recommended for effective nodulation and nitrogen fixation. Use Pea Vetch Lentil Inoculant (treats 100 lb), Garden Combination Mix Inoculant (treats 8 lb), or Garden Combination Mix Inoculant (treats 50 lb). Choose the package size that matches the amount of seed being planted, and plant promptly after treating the seed.
• Plant Height: Vines can reach approximately 3 feet
• Uses: Nitrogen fixation, green manure, weed competition, pollinator forage, and mixed cover cropping with oats
• Climate: Best suited to mild-winter areas that generally remain above approximately 20°F
• Management: Terminate before mature seed develops and monitor climbing growth near crops or irrigation equipment