Smooth yellow vetch (Vicia lutea)

Also known as: Yellow Vetch

The Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is a native wildflower that thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. It produces vibrant lemon-yellow blooms and is highly attractive to pollinators, especially butterflies.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Smooth yellow vetch

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Plant Height

61 cm

Spread

Variable, tends to spread out with tendrils

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Color

White Green

Images of Smooth yellow vetch

Quickly Identify Smooth yellow vetch

To identify Vicia lutea, look for its yellow, pea-like flowers arranged in small clusters. The leaves are compound with several pairs of oblong leaflets. It also features tendrils at the end of the leaves.

Scientific Classification of Smooth yellow vetch

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Vetches

Species

Smooth yellow vetch

Planting and Growing of Smooth yellow vetch

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

59-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-8

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Smooth yellow vetch?

The water amount for Vicia lutea should be moderate. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering might stunt growth. Aim for 150ml until soil feels evenly moist but not soaked.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Smooth yellow vetch? ›

What should I do if my Smooth yellow vetch is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Smooth yellow vetch? ›

How to save an overwatered Smooth yellow vetch? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Smooth yellow vetch?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours of sunlight

Vicia lutea enjoys full to partial sun conditions, ideally receiving 6-8 hours of light daily. This lighting range ensures optimal growth, vibrant blooms, and overall plant health.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Vicia lutea? ›

How can I achieve ideal light conditions for Vicia lutea? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting bring to Vicia lutea? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Smooth yellow vetch?

Ideal Temperature: 59 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Vicia lutea is between 59°F and 77°F. Within this temperature range, the plant can carry out photosynthesis efficiently, maintain optimal growth rates, and develop robust roots and foliage. This mild climate supports the physiological processes that are crucial for its health and productivity.

What Soil is Best for Smooth yellow vetch?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6 ~ 8

Vicia lutea thrives in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging, ensuring the roots get enough oxygen. This type of soil helps maintain a healthy root environment, which is crucial for nutrient uptake and overall plant vigor. The plant prefers soils with moderate nutrient content, supplying it with essential elements needed for growth without overwhelming it. This balance helps in promoting steady growth and vibrant green foliage. Vicia lutea is adaptable to a wide pH range from 6.0 to 8.0, making it versatile for various garden soils. This adaptability means it can thrive in both slightly acidic and neutral conditions, improving chances of successful cultivation.

How to Fertilize Smooth yellow vetch?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Vicia lutea, use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient ratio such as 10-10-10 for general growth. Depending on the plant's size, apply about 1/4 cup of slow-release granules per plant in the spring, ensuring an even distribution around the root zone. For liquid fertilizers, mix 1 teaspoon per gallon of water, applying thoroughly on damp soil.

How to Prune Smooth yellow vetch?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

For pruning Vicia lutea, you'll need a pair of sharp, clean pruning shears to make precise cuts. Ensure your tools are sanitized to prevent any risk of plant infections. Dull or dirty tools can damage the plant tissues and increase the risk of diseases. Start by identifying and removing any dead or damaged stems. Cut these back to the base or nearest healthy node. Next, trim back any overly long growth to maintain a balanced shape. Ensure you cut at a 45-degree angle to prevent water from accumulating on the cut surface, which can lead to rot. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Smooth yellow vetch plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

First, fill the seed tray with potting soil, ensuring it's evenly spread. Lightly moisten the soil to create an optimal medium for seed sowing. Level the surface to make seed placement easier.

Evenly distribute Vicia lutea seeds on the soil surface. Lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. Aim for a depth twice the diameter of the seeds for best results.

After sowing, gently water the seeds to avoid displacement. Maintain consistent moisture levels to support germination. Position the seed tray in a location with ample sunlight.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Smooth yellow vetch plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repotting Vicia lutea is best done when you observe signs such as roots growing out of the drainage holes or a noticeable reduction in growth and vitality. These indicators suggest the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space to thrive.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. This prevents waterlogging and root rot, providing Vicia lutea the space and water management it needs for robust growth.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix to ensure excess water can freely escape, minimizing root rot risk. Such a mix typically includes components like perlite or sand, which add texture and aeration to the soil, promoting healthy root development.

Toxicity

Ingestion

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.