Top Vetch Producing Countries

Vetch, a group of leguminous plants primarily from the genus *Vicia*, has been cultivated for centuries as a valuable forage and green manure crop. Historically, vetch was grown in the Mediterranean and Near East regions as early as 7000 BCE, often alongside early cereals like wheat and barley, due to its ability to fix nitrogen and improve soil fertility. Over time, its cultivation spread throughout Europe and Asia, becoming an important rotational crop. Today, the top countries farming vetch include Russia, Australia, Ethiopia, Spain, and Turkey. Russia and Australia lead global production, with vast areas dedicated to common vetch (*Vicia sativa*) for livestock feed and soil improvement. Spain and Turkey are also significant producers, utilizing vetch in traditional mixed cropping systems. Ethiopia stands out in Africa, where vetch is grown both for animal fodder and as a cover crop to enhance soil health. The global importance of vetch continues to grow, especially in sustainable agriculture systems focused on soil conservation and reduced reliance on synthetic fertilizers.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat