- Ability to fix large quantities of nitrogen
- Excellent cover crop which produces high biomass
- Winterhardy
- Provides a weed suppressing mulch for no-till corn and other crops
- Flowers two weeks earlier than common hairy vetch
Purple Bounty is a new winterhardy, early maturing hairy vetch variety developed for high nitrogen fixation (up to ½ of a subsequent crop’s nitrogen), increased biomass for a thicker mulch and earlier flowering for more flexibility in planting succeeding crops. Vetch forms ground cover slowly in the fall, but root development continues through the winter with substantial growth in the spring. For maximum results, Purple Bounty should be in full bloom to allow for peak nitrogen contribution and to mow, roll or spray for maximum vetch kill. Spring oats or winter grains can also be planted with Purple Bounty to act as a protective cover for improved winter survival and increased erosion control.
PLANTING SUGGESTIONS:
- Planting rate: 20-25 pounds per acre, broadcast or drilled
- Planting depth: 1 inch
- Planting dates: August – October depending on location
- Soil pH: 6.0 – 7.0 for optimum results
- Drought tolerance: Good