Cover & Crops & Forages· Phleum pratense

Timothy Grass Growing Guide

Cool-season perennial bunch grass widely grown in northern temperate regions for premium hay production. Especially valued as horse hay due to its consistent quality and palatability.

How Long Does Timothy Grass Take to Grow?

Timothy Grass is typically ready to harvest about 70 days after planting.

70
Days to Harvest
moderate
Water Needs
full sun
Sun Needs

Growing Conditions

Temperature
10-22°C optimal
Rainfall
600-1200 mm/year
Frost Tolerance
high
Drought Tolerance
low
Humidity
moderate tolerance
Heat Tolerance
low

Soil Requirements

Soil Type & pH

Best soil types: loam, clay loam, silt loam

pH range: 6 - 7 (optimal: 6.5)

Drainage: moderate

Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)

Nitrogen (N)high
Phosphorus (P)moderate
Potassium (K)high

Planting Guide

Planting Methods
drilling, broadcasting
Planting Depth
1 cm
Plant Spacing
3 cm apart, 15 cm rows
Planting Season
spring, late summer

Yield & Economics

Market Demand
stable
Profitability
medium
Harvests/Year
2

Common Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

  • timothy mite
  • grass grub
  • aphids

Common Diseases

  • purple eyespot
  • leaf streak
  • rust

Use AI crop disease detection to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.

Growing Tips

Cut at early heading stage for best feed quality; delaying harvest significantly increases fiber and reduces digestibility.

Timothy is shallow-rooted and sensitive to close grazing; maintain a 7-10 cm stubble height to ensure stand persistence.

Pair with red clover or alfalfa to improve forage protein content and reduce nitrogen fertilizer requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Timothy Grass take to grow?

Timothy Grass typically takes 70 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 10 days. The best planting season is spring, late summer.

What soil does Timothy Grass need?

Timothy Grass grows best in loam, clay loam, silt loam soil with a pH of 6-7. Moderate drainage is required.

What temperature does Timothy Grass need?

Timothy Grass grows best at 10-22°C. Frost tolerance: high. Heat tolerance: low.

How much sun and water does Timothy Grass need?

Timothy Grass thrives with full sun light and moderate watering.

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