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Grass Vetchling

Lathyrus nissolia · Fabaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant grass vetchling: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Scientific name
Lathyrus nissolia
Family
Fabaceae (legumes)
Type
Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
Flowering
April to June
Adult height
30 to 80 cm tall
Foliage
Deciduous, composed of tendrils
Hardiness
Hardy, temperate zones
Origin
Mediterranean region and Southern Europe

Care

Light exposure

Nissolia pea prefers a sunny or partially shaded location for abundant blooms. It tolerates bright situations well but appreciates slight protection in very hot climates. Place it in a well-ventilated spot to limit stagnant humidity.

Soil preparation

This plant adapts to various soil types but prefers well-drained and uncompacted substrate. Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Being a legume, it naturally improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.

Regular watering

Keep the soil slightly moist during growth and flowering, without excess. Gradually reduce watering after flowering. Avoid water stagnation which promotes the development of fungal diseases.

Nutritional input

Thanks to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, it requires little fertilizer. Well-decomposed compost at planting generally suffices. If growth is insufficient, apply a balanced diluted fertilizer in spring.

Pruning and training

Pinch young shoots to promote branching and a bushy shape. After flowering, you can cut faded stems to slightly extend the blooming period. Leave a few flowers to turn into pods if you want spontaneous reseeding.

Health prevention

Watch for powdery mildew if humidity is excessive and ventilation insufficient. Aphids can colonize tender young shoots. Promote air circulation and intervene quickly with appropriate phytosanitary methods if necessary.

Did you know?

Nissolia pea is a little-known plant but appreciated by wild garden enthusiasts for its delicate flowers in shades of pink or purple. Its name "nissolia" pays tribute to the 17th-century French botanist. Once more widely cultivated, it is being rediscovered by cut flower lovers and ecological gardening enthusiasts.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.