Lablab (Lablab purpureus), also known as hyacinth bean, is a warm-season legume that serves as an excellent wildlife food source due to its high protein content and vigorous growth. It is particularly favored for deer food plots, as it provides nutritious forage throughout the summer and fall. Additionally, lablab improves soil health by fixing nitrogen, making it a valuable rotational cover crop.

Benefits for Wildlife Habitat

✔ High protein forage (25–30%) for deer, rabbits, and livestock.
✔ Drought-resistant and thrives in hot climates.
✔ Nitrogen-fixing legume that enriches soil health.
✔ Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects.
✔ Produces abundant vining foliage for food and cover.

Planting Guidelines for Lablab

• Planting Times:

  • Spring to Early Summer (April–June) – After the last frost, when soil temperatures reach 65°F or higher.

• Seeding Depth:

  • 1 to 1.5 inches deep – Seeds should be placed deep enough to ensure moisture retention for germination.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 15–20 lbs per acre for rows with controlled spacing.
  • Broadcast: 25–30 lbs per acre, followed by light cultipacking to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

• Days to Maturity:

  • 90–120 days – Lablab reaches full maturity within this time frame, but deer and livestock can begin browsing 30–45 days after planting.

• Height at Maturity:

  • Lablab vines can reach 3–10 feet, depending on growth conditions.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • High – Lablab thrives in dry, hot environments due to its deep root system.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Low – Lablab does not perform well in waterlogged or poorly drained soils.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Low – Prefers full sun for maximum growth and forage production.

Fertilization Guidelines for Lablab

• Soil pH: Prefers a slightly acidic to neutral range of 6.0–7.0.
• Nitrogen (N): Minimal nitrogen is needed, as lablab fixes its own nitrogen through root nodules. However, a starter application of 20–30 lbs per acre can promote early growth.
• Phosphorus (P): 40–60 lbs P₂O₅ per acre to support root and flower development.
• Potassium (K): 40–60 lbs K₂O per acre for overall plant vigor and drought resistance.

Fertilization Timing:

• Apply phosphorus and potassium before planting.
• Side-dress with additional potassium mid-season if needed.

Herbicide Use for Lablab

• Weed Management:

  • Lablab competes well once established, but early weed pressure can hinder germination and growth.

• Pre-emergence Herbicides:

  • Prowl H2O (Pendimethalin) – Controls annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds.
  • Dual Magnum (S-metolachlor) – Provides residual control of grasses and small-seeded broadleaf weeds.

• Post-emergence Herbicides:

  • Clethodim (Select Max) – Controls grasses without harming broadleaf lablab.
  • Imazethapyr (Pursuit) – Can be used selectively for broadleaf weed suppression, but care should be taken.

Key Considerations:

• Avoid glyphosate unless using a shielded sprayer or applying before planting.