Seed Rate and Cultivar Effect on Contribution of Vicia sativa L. Green Manure to Soil Amendment under Mediterranean Conditions

The performance of Vicia sativa L. cultivars and cultivar mixtures used as green manure under two seed rates in a Mediterranean environment was investigated split plot design, over the period 2014–2016. Six common vetch grown pure stands or were established at (S1 = 100 Kg ha−1 S2 180 kg ha−1). Growth traits (e.g., plant height, biomass yield, LAI, CGR) monitored until incorporation into topsoil. nitrogen (N) concentration incorporated along with decomposition rate determined, effects on N supply to soil evaluated two, four six months after incorporation. increment residual Ν manuring fluctuated from 17 45 among cultivars, months, 22 50 ha−1. average organic substances slightly higher for all time intervals; however highest value (62.6%) recorded S1 Seed rate-independent genotypes identified regard matter are suggested being suitable green-manuring farming systems low rate, fact that offers options economic environmental benefits.