Overview:
Vicia ervilia (L.) Willd., commonly known as bitter vetch or yeros, is a legume plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated since ancient times.
Appearance:
Bitter vetch is an annual plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. Its leaves are pinnate and consist of 8-12 pairs of linear leaflets that are 8-20 mm long. The plant produces purple or blue flowers that are approximately 15-18 mm long. The fruit is a cylindrical pod that is 4-6 cm long and contains 4-7 seeds.
Common names:
Bitter vetch is known by various common names such as yeros, ervil, fickbohne, tarwi, kersannah, safarjal, and schmalkorn.
Uses:
Bitter vetch is primarily used as a forage crop for livestock, particularly in regions with low rainfall. It is also used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility. In some regions, the seeds of bitter vetch are roasted and consumed as a snack or used as a coffee substitute. Additionally, the plant has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions such as digestive disorders and respiratory ailments.
Light Requirements
Vicia ervilia thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure for optimal growth. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield.
Temperature requirements
This plant is well adapted to cool temperatures and can tolerate frosts. The optimum temperature range for its growth is between 15 to 20°C. Higher temperatures can inhibit growth and result in reduced yields. Temperatures below 5°C can also affect seed germination and establishment.
Soil Requirements
Vicia ervilia prefers well-drained, deep, and fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The plant is well adapted to heavy soils but can also grow well in sandy loam and clay loam soils. Organic matter content in the soil can improve plant growth and yield. This plant is drought-resistant but requires adequate moisture during germination and pod development stages.
Cultivation
Vicia ervilia (L.) Willd., also known as bitter vetch, is an annual plant that thrives in temperate climates. It prefers well-draining soils and a pH of 6.0-7.5. It is a winter crop and should be sowed in the fall, two to three weeks before the first frost. The seeds should be sown 1-2 inches deep and spaced at 2-4 inches apart. It can be grown in rows or broadcast sowing.
Watering Needs
Vicia ervilia requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered immediately after sowing to ensure adequate moisture for germination. Once the plant has established, watering should be done sparingly, allowing the soil to dry slightly before watering again. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Vicia ervilia responds well to fertilization. Organic fertilizer is recommended to be added during planting to provide nutrients to the crop. Nitrogen fertilizer can also be applied mid-season to boost plant growth. It should be applied in small amounts, as excessive nitrogen can lead to dense vegetative growth and lower seed production.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Vicia ervilia. However, to increase seed production, it is recommended to thin the plant to allow for adequate spacing between plants. This promotes the growth of more pods and ensures larger seeds. In addition, it also improves air circulation, reducing the risk of disease. Any yellowing or wilted leaves and stems can be removed to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Vicia ervilia
Vicia ervilia (L.) Willd., commonly known as bitter vetch, is an annual legume plant that is grown for animal feed and fodder. Propagation of the plant can be done through various methods which are discussed below:
Direct Seeding
One of the common methods of propagating Vicia ervilia is through direct seeding. This is done by planting the seeds directly in the field during the planting season. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm and spaced 10-15 cm apart. The field should be well-tilled and free of weeds to provide a good environment for the seeds to germinate.
Transplanting
Transplanting is another effective method of propagating Vicia ervilia. This method involves planting seedlings that have been raised in a nursery into the field. The seedlings should be transplanted when they are 4-6 weeks old and have 4-5 leaves. The seedlings should be spaced at 10-15 cm apart and in rows that are 30-40 cm apart.
Cuttings
Vicia ervilia can also be propagated through cuttings. This method involves cutting stems from the parent plant and planting them into the soil. The stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants and should be 15-20 cm long. The cuttings should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm and spaced at 10-15 cm apart. The cuttings should be watered regularly until they establish their roots and begin to grow.
Division
Division is a method of propagating Vicia ervilia that involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections and planting them in the field. This method is best done during the spring when the plant is actively growing. The root ball of the parent plant should be carefully divided into smaller sections and the sections should be planted in the field. The plants should be watered regularly until they establish their roots and begin to grow.
Disease Management
Vicia ervilia is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Some of the common diseases are:
- Ascochyta Blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Ascochyta fabae and can cause stem and foliar blight. It can lead to defoliation and reduced yield. Proper crop rotation, sanitation, and use of resistant cultivars can help manage this disease.
- Fusarium Wilt: This is a soil-borne disease caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ervilia. It can cause yellowing and wilt of the leaves. Crop rotation, use of resistant cultivars, and avoidance of planting in fields with a history of the disease can help manage Fusarium wilt.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by various fungi, including Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium spp. It can cause wilting, stunted growth, and reduced yield. Proper drainage, crop rotation, and use of fungicides can help manage root rot.
Pest Management
Several pests can cause damage to Vicia ervilia. Some of the common pests are:
- Aphids: Aphids can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the sap. They can also transmit viruses. Use of insecticidal soap, neem oil, and other insecticides can help manage aphids.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are larvae of several species of moths and can cut down the seedling at the soil surface. Use of insecticides and trapping can help manage cutworms.
- Wireworms: Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and can cause damage to the roots. Crop rotation, use of insecticides, and resistant cultivars can help manage wireworms.
