Timothy grass – one of the most common grasses in field and meadow sowing in forest-steppe and steppe zones of the country. This frost-hardy plant starts growing in spring at average daily temperatures of 5‑6 °C, and seeds germinate already at 1‑2 °C. Thanks to its high cold resistance, it is grown even in northern regions. Timothy grass prefers moist soils: yield is maximum on clay and drained peat bogs, however it can grow almost on all soil types, except dry sandy and saline surfaces. The plant responds well to the addition of fertilizers, especially nitrogen, which leads to a noticeable increase in yield.
The fodder qualities of timothy are high: the content of digestible protein is not less than 10 %, leaves make up to 40 % of the total hay mass. Green mass reaches 180‑220 c/ha, and hay – 70‑100 c/ha. The culture is valued as feed for cows and horses, and is also eaten by rabbits. To obtain quality hay, the plant must be mowed before flowering; usually two to three cuts are made per season depending on moisture.
Timothy is also widely used in greening and as a component of lawn mixtures due to its dense structure and attractive appearance. It can withstand flooding for up to 30 days, but does not withstand prolonged drought and shade. The plant height reaches one meter, leaves are narrow (5‑10 mm) and of medium hardness, 30 to 40 cm long. Seeds germinate at +5 °C, and growth begins already at the same temperature. Sowing can be carried out in spring or autumn with a rate of 15‑20 kg/ha for homogeneous cultures and 7‑10 kg/ha in mixtures.
