Introducing Milk Vetch

Milk Vetch, also known as Astragalus Sinicus, is a stunning ground cover legume that blooms with lovely pink and purple flowers. This biennial plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 11 and is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscape while improving soil quality.

Benefits of Milk Vetch

Not only does Milk Vetch provide an attractive display during April to July, but it also plays a vital role in soil health. As a legume, it fixes nitrogen in the soil, making it a fantastic natural fertilizer. This quality makes it suitable for use as a green manure crop, especially in winter.

Planting and Care

To achieve the best results, plant Milk Vetch seeds in warm soil with a spacing of 12 to 15 inches between plants. They prefer average to dry soil and require full sun for optimal growth. The plant height ranges from 4 to 12 inches, making it a versatile choice for various garden settings.

Key Features

• USDA Zone: 5 – 11
• Soil Type: Average – Dry
• Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun
• Expected Planting Period: Spring

FAQs

• What is the ideal planting depth for Milk Vetch seeds? Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in warm soil.
• How often should I water Milk Vetch? Water when the soil is dry, as they prefer drier conditions.
• When do Milk Vetch flowers bloom? They typically bloom from April to July.
• What is the size of mature Milk Vetch plants? They grow to a height of 4 to 12 inches.
• Can I use Milk Vetch as a cover crop? Yes, it’s excellent for fixing nitrogen and improving soil health.