Timothy is a cool-season perennial bunchgrass that offers growers a dependable, low-input seed crop option, particularly on fields with higher moisture or lower productivity. Its strong performance under cool, moist conditions and its role in producing high-quality forage make timothy a crop worth considering.
Suited to Moist and Marginal Soils #
Timothy is a long-lived perennial with a fibrous root system and a productive lifespan of approximately three to five years. It performs well on poorly drained or lower-producing soils and is tolerant of excess moisture, including spring flooding. The crop is extremely winter hardy and provides reliable production across multiple seasons.
Once established, timothy requires relatively low inputs and limited in-season management, making it an efficient long-term seed crop for growers looking to stabilize returns and manage risk.
Establishment and Field Preparation #
Successful timothy production begins with careful field selection. Fields must be free of residual herbicides with activity on grasses, as timothy is sensitive during establishment. Reviewing herbicide history prior to seeding is essential.
Glyphosate applications in the years leading up to seeding are recommended to control perennial weeds and ensure a clean start. While herbicides are available to manage broadleaf weeds, options for controlling grassy weeds such as wild oats and green foxtail are limited. Starting with a clean field remains one of the most important steps.
Timothy seed is very small and must be seeded shallow into a firm seedbed. Most growers seed at approximately two pounds per acre. Cover crops such as wheat, oats, or flax may be used during establishment, provided competition is carefully managed.
Management and Long-Term Fit #
Once established, timothy provides strong competition against weeds, helping suppress future pressure and reduce input requirements. At harvest, timothy straw must be removed from the field to maintain stand health and consistent seed production. The straw has relatively good feed value and can be used for livestock feed or bedding.
For growers seeking a long-lived perennial seed crop that performs well under high-moisture conditions, timothy offers a reliable option. Minimum price contracts are available to help manage market risk and provide added stability over the life of the stand.
Timothy remains a dependable choice for growers looking to diversify rotations, manage challenging acres, and support high-quality forage production.
For more information on timothy seed production contact your local seed production specialist.
