Timothy grass (Phleum pratense) is a perennial herbaceous plant that is widely distributed in meadows, pastures and along roadsides in the forest-steppe and steppe zones of the country. It is characterized by high frost resistance: seeds germinate at 1–2 °C, and growth begins already at 5–6 °C. The plant prefers fertile soils with good moisture – clayey and loamy soils give the highest yields, while sandy and swampy soils are not suitable. Timothy grass can withstand flooding with spring water for up to 30 days, but does not tolerate drought and prolonged shade.
The fodder properties of timothy grass make it one of the most sought-after crops for hay and feed production. The leaves contain a large amount of protein in an easily digestible form, and hay can reach yields of up to 10 t/ha with proper fertilization. The crop responds quickly to nitrogen fertilizers – increasing yield without loss of quality. An important aspect of agrotechnics is soil preparation: plowing, leveling and removal of weeds before sowing, as well as correct seed embedding depth (no more than 1 cm). Timothy grass can be sown in spring (April) or autumn; for autumn sowings it is recommended to use a mixture with alfalfa or clover.
Care of the crop includes regular top dressing with mineral fertilizers, harrowing after each mowing to saturate the soil with oxygen and weed control. Organic fertilizers are better not used in the first year to avoid active growth of competing plants. The flowering period occurs in June when hard panicle inflorescences up to 10 cm long form. With proper management of agrotechnical measures, timothy grass provides a high nutritional value of hay and good germination (about 96%).
