Common vetch is one of the two economically important vetch species that are commonly grown in Central Europe. It is considered a valuable legume plant. It is commonly grown for green fodder, green fertilizer, less frequently for seeds. This is a spring plant that develops slender stems that carry compound alternate leaves. Common vetch develops crimson-purple flowers. The small pods contain 5 to 8 small grey-brown seeds and are not really resistant to breaking.

Common vetch brings the richest crops in ordinary fertile soil that should have alkaline or neutral reaction. This species does not belong to thermophilic plants and handles spring frost well. It requires more water, though. It grows successfully throughout the whole Central Europe, but prefers southern and highland regions. Common vetch is grown as main crop or mixed catch crop with oats or mustard.

Vetch is a valuable fodder plant. It supplies tender food that is eagerly eaten by animals. Common vetch is harvested during the flat pod stage that constitutes the majority of the yield mass. Otherwise it is used for green fodder for the ongoing feeding. Vetch hay contains many valuable nutrients - it is rich in proteins, fats and ash. Plants are harvested in one go and requires additional drying.

Common vetch is a great green fertilizer too. It provides you with the cheapest, 100% eco-friendly and efficient nitrogen fertilization. It is recommended particularly for home gardens and allotments. The 'Hanka' variety is a productive and popular variety. It is provides excellent seeds and green fodder.

One package contains 0.5 kg seeds of the 'Hanka' common vetch, as well as the basic growing instructions and the sow-by date.

• Use: green fodder, green fertilizer
• Flower colour: crimson-purple
• Site: fertile soil with alkaline or neutral reaction
• Weight: 0.5 kg