Timothy
Phleum pratense · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant timothy: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, herbaceous
- Flowering
- June to July
- Adult size
- 60 to 100 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20 °C)
- Origin
- Temperate and western Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile, slightly moist
Care
Watering
Timothy grass is a hardy and undemanding grass that establishes well in natural conditions. Water regularly when establishing to encourage rooting, then gradually reduce watering as it tolerates summer drought well. In consistently moist conditions, it thrives without additional intervention.
Exposure
Plant timothy grass in full sun for optimal growth and maximum density. It tolerates light partial shade but will produce less biomass. Avoid very shaded areas that would slow its development.
Soil
Timothy prefers fertile and well-structured soil, slightly moist but well-drained. However, it adapts to many soil types and tolerates wet areas better than some other grasses. Improve depleted soils by adding organic matter before planting.
Cutting and pruning
Mow or cut in spring (May-June) to limit spreading. A second pass after flowering helps maintain stand density. In meadows, regular mowing encourages more compact, bushier and more productive growth.
Fertilizer
Timothy grass benefits from moderate nitrogen fertilization in spring to support growth. A balanced organic or mineral fertilizer application at the start of the growing season is usually sufficient. Avoid overdosing, which would encourage excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Diseases and pests
Timothy grass is very resistant to common diseases. In very humid conditions, watch for risks of damping off or root rot. Good drainage and regular aeration through mowing prevent most health problems.
Did you know?
Timothy grass has been one of the major forage grasses in Europe for centuries. Its scientific name Phleum comes from ancient Greek and designates a grass, while the term 'timothy' directly translates this etymology. It remains today a key component of permanent meadows and seed mixtures for livestock.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Tufted hair grassDeschampsia cespitosa
- Wavy hair-grassAvenella flexuosa
- Purple moor-grassMolinia caerulea
- Reed canary-grassPhalaris arundinacea
- Common quaking grassBriza media
- Creeping soft-grassHolcus mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.