Presto timothy grass is a perennial meadow grass belonging to the species Phleum pratense L., widely used as a fodder crop for livestock. The variety is characterized by high disease resistance and good productivity: green mass reaches 360 centners per hectare, and hay – 83 c/ha. Thanks to strong bushiness and excellent leaf retention, Presto easily integrates into grass mixtures, providing a stable fodder resource for livestock.
The fodder value of Presto is high: at the correct mowing time (from the end of heading to the beginning of flowering), the yield of green mass contains 21–25 kg of dry matter per 100 kg of grass, and in hay – 49–50 kg of dry matter and 3–5 kg of protein. Leaves make up 50–65% of the total mass, making the grass attractive to animals both as fresh grass and in the form of hay.
The variety grows well on various soil types, especially on wet clay soils and drained peat lands. It is resistant to moderate spring flooding (up to 30 days) and withstands significant acidity (pH 4.5–5.0), although it performs better on less acidic substrates. Presto is easily grown at a sowing rate of 7–9 kg/ha with a sowing depth of 1–2 cm and does not require special care due to high nitrogen fertilizer tolerance. Due to these characteristics, the variety is suitable for both pasture use (3–4 cuts) and production of quality hay, ensuring a stable fodder resource for several years.
