Austrian Winter Peas

Austrian winter peas are a cool-season legume widely used as a cover crop and winter forage due to their fast establishment and strong biomass production. Commonly referred to as winter peas, they are valued for livestock palatability, nitrogen contribution, and cost-effective soil coverage.

• High Biomass Production: Austrian winter peas establish quickly and contribute significant above-ground biomass when terminated.

• Palatable Winter Forage: Highly attractive to livestock, making them a reliable option for fall and winter grazing.

• Weed Suppression Support: Dense early growth helps suppress weeds during cool-season growing periods.
  

Type: Legume
Season: Cool Season

Seeding & Growth

Precision: 30 lb/A
Drilled: 40 lb/A, 1" to 1/2" deep
Broadcast: Not recommended
Aerial: Not recommended

Dates: Aug. to Oct., early enough so plants are 6-8" tall before soil freezes, because peas are shallow rooted and susceptible to heaving. Frost seeding in early spring

Avg seeds/lb: 1,800-4,000
Emergence: 9 days
Height: 2'-4'
Inoculate: Yes, pea or vetch inoculant
Drought and Heat: Low drought and heat tolerance
Flooding: Does not tolerate flooding or ponding

Frequently Asked Questions: Austrian Winter Peas

What are winter peas used for?

Winter peas are commonly used as a cool-season cover crop or forage legume. They are planted to add biomass, improve soil fertility, and provide palatable forage for livestock.

What are Austrian winter peas?

Austrian winter peas are a specific type of winter pea known for fast germination, strong biomass production, and livestock palatability. They are often planted in fall as a cover crop or in spring for forage use.

Do Austrian winter peas fix nitrogen?

Yes. As a legume, Austrian winter peas contribute nitrogen to the soil when properly inoculated, supporting soil fertility and benefiting subsequent crops.

Are Austrian winter peas winter hardy?

Austrian winter peas have limited winter hardiness compared to some other cool-season legumes. Survival depends on planting timing, snow cover, and regional winter conditions.

Can winter peas be planted alone or in a mix?

Winter peas can be planted as a single-species stand or included in cover crop and forage mixes. When blended with grasses or other legumes, seeding rates should be adjusted to maintain balance.