Sunflower/Vetch
our general observations
To learn more about our general observations with this intercrop, click here to view grower presentation.
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sunflower/vetch
THE THEORY
The sunflower (warm season broadleaf) provides a micro-climate for the vetch (cool season legume). In return, the vetch protects the soil and provides late season nitrogen for the sunflower. Both of these species are mycorrhizal fungi dependent and utilize each others root systems to share minerals and water.
A carbon:nitrogen Balance
The vegetative vetch (low C:N) balances the high carbon sunflower (high C:N). This provides an ideal environment for soil microbes to thrive (24:1). To learn more about Carbon:Nitrogen and why it is important, click here.
* Disclaimer: these are only guidelines we have adopted from our own experiences with this intercrop. Each environmental condition will be different and encourage you to try your own rates and practices you are comfortable with.
Sunflower/vetch
seeding information
19,000 plants/acre
2 Ibs of Hairy Vetch
Sunflower/vetch
herbicide management
Pre-emerge glyphosate.
No in-crop herbicide
sunflower/vetch
harvest options
1. Harvest sunflower crop (graze residue)
sunflower/vetch
most common mistake
Cutting nitrogen back too much thinking the vetch will provide season long nitrogen for sunflower.
Sunflower seeding rates too high as this may cut off sunlight for the vetch.
