Yem Bezelyesi

The taproot is quite strong; the branching roots can reach depths of 90–100 cm. The stem is slightly angular in cross-section and hollow. Because the plant lodges easily, growing it together with cereals is recommended. All organs of the plant are covered with a waxy layer, giving it a green-grey appearance. Forage pea is an annual crop. It is grown for herbage, used as silage, its grain is fed to livestock, and the plant also serves as green manure. It can likewise be grazed, and is useful in soil improvement.

Although forage pea closely resembles the garden pea, it is easily distinguished by the purple spots on its stipules and the darker colour of its flowers and seed. As a forage crop it matures quickly. It is both a herbage and a grain feed crop. The amount of nitrogen it fixes in the soil is high, increasing field fertility. Its seed and herbage are nutritious. Despite being an annual, it has a strong taproot and forms a very good relationship with Rhizobium bacteria, which makes it an excellent preceding crop in rotations. For short-term pasture it is better sown mixed with cereals, since pure forage pea carries a bloat risk.

One of the leading varieties usable for both feed and green manure. It shows good robustness, with high protein content and dry-matter yield. Its thousand-seed weight lowers sowing costs. It is well suited to mixed sowing.