Variety «Vika» (Vicia villosa Roth) – a hybrid type of oat vetch, developed by the Institute of Soybean Research of POVOLZHISKI NIIS. It combines the best qualities of related varieties Spring vetch, Local, Weedfield, and others, which ensures high yield of green mass and dry matter. The plant reaches a height of 90‑110 cm, has a light green stem with moderate pubescence and compound dark green leaves with tendrils. Flowers are small, purple, gathered in an erect raceme; inflorescences are usually 3–5 on one stem, each containing 15‑25 flowers.
The vegetative period lasts 300‑320 days – from the beginning of spring growth to the beginning of flowering. On the plant, an average of 24 pods (up to 46) are formed, each 4–5 cm long and about 1 cm wide, containing 3‑5 seeds. Raw protein content at the budding stage reaches 14‑18%, and cellulose – 30‑32%. These indicators make «Vika» a valuable source of protein for green feed and hay, silage preparations.
The yield of green mass averages 10.4 t/ha, and under favorable conditions can reach 12 t/ha. Dry matter is harvested in an amount of about 3.85 t/ha (up to 4 t/ha). «Vika» seeds give a yield of 7.1 c/ha, which is 15% higher compared to Glinkovskaya; under good conditions, growth up to 8 c/ha is possible. The variety is included in the State Register of Breeding Achievements of the Russian Federation and is protected by patent No. 7756. To maintain quality, it is recommended to isolate plants from other varieties and weed when white-flowered individuals appear.
