Introduction
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium, commonly known as the bush vetch or tufted vetch, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. This herbaceous plant is a popular ornamental plant and a valuable source of food for various animals.
Origin
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The plant has now been introduced in various countries around the world where it has naturalized in many areas, particularly in North America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the bush vetch or tufted vetch. Other common names include cow vetch, bird vetch, and purple vetch.
General Appearance
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium is a perennial plant, growing up to 1 meter tall. The plant has a slender stem that is lined with leaflets, which are usually arranged in pairs. The leaves are pinnately compound with small leaflets measuring about 1-4 cm long and 3-12 mm wide. The flowers are small and purple, clustered in inflorescences that can be up to 15 cm long. The fruit is a small pod that is typically 2-3 cm long and contains several seeds.
Uses
The plant has several uses, both for humans and animals. The young leaves and shoots are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. The plant is sometimes used as a fodder for livestock. Additionally, the seeds are a source of food for some bird species such as the house sparrow and the linnet. The plant also has some medicinal properties, with some species being used traditionally to treat respiratory infections, headaches, and jaundice.
Light Requirements
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. When grown in partial shade, the plant may become elongated and thin due to lack of light. However, it can tolerate some shade and is often found growing under trees or in a partially shaded area.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Vicia sepium L. var. sepium is between 15°C to 25°C. While the plant can tolerate temperatures outside of this range, growth may be slow or stunted. In colder regions, the plant may die off during harsh winters, but it is known to regrow in the spring.
Soil Requirements
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium prefers well-drained soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It can grow in a wide range of pH levels, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils. The plant can also tolerate moderately saline soils but may struggle in extremely dry or compacted soils.
Cultivation methods
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium, commonly known as the bush vetch, is an easy-to-grow climbing plant that prefers a sunny location to grow. It can grow in any soil type if it's well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The plant should be sown in late winter directly in the ground, or early spring. The ideal temperature for germination is around 15°C. If you cultivate in pots, ensure that you have a pot that's deep enough to accommodate the roots.
Watering needs
During the first weeks after sowing, water the seeds twice a week. Once the plant starts to grow, reduce watering, and only water when the soil feels dry. During hot summer months, the plant may require extra watering, especially if the weather is dry. However, ensure that you don't overwater as this may cause root rot.
Fertilization
The vetch plant doesn't require much fertilization, although adding organic compost to the soil before planting can improve soil fertility. Alternatively, you can add a balanced fertilizer once the plant starts growing. Repeat this application every three weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary for bush vetches, but not until the plant is fully established. After the first growing season, you can prune the plant to encourage branching and support growth. The best time to prune is during the dormant season, which is generally in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged growth and cut back the plant by a third of its overall size. If the plant is grown for its ornamental value, you can also train it to climb a trellis or support structure.
Propagation of Vicia sepium L. var. sepium
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium, commonly known as bush vetch, can be propagated in several ways:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most popular method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds of Vicia sepium L. var. sepium can be sown directly in the field where they are to grow or in pots or trays for later transplanting. It is important to choose a well-draining soil and to keep it moist until the seeds germinate. Sowing the seeds in the spring when temperatures are warmer will encourage faster germination and growth.
Vegetative propagation
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings or division.
Cuttings: Take stem cuttings from the parent plant in the summer or early autumn. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should be planted in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright area until the cuttings root.
Division: In the spring, carefully dig up and divide the parent plant into smaller clumps, making sure each clump has some roots and shoots. Replant the new clumps in a well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plants establish new roots.
Disease Management
Some common diseases that affect Vicia sepium L. var. sepium include powdery mildew, rust, and anthracnose. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery growth on leaf surfaces, while rust causes reddish-brown spots on leaves and stems. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes necrotic lesions on leaves, stems, and pods.
To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove affected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant by reducing plant density. Fungicides such as sulfur and neem oil can also be used to control the disease. Rust and anthracnose can be controlled by removing and destroying affected plant debris and treating with fungicides such as copper-based products.
Pest Management
Vicia sepium L. var. sepium can also be affected by pests such as aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Thrips cause spotting and discoloration on leaves, while spider mites cause yellowing and browning of leaves.
To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soaps or oils, or introduce predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to the garden. Thrips and spider mites can be controlled with insecticides such as pyrethroids or neem oil. Regular monitoring and early detection of these pests can help prevent severe infestations.
