Timothy Grass Seed (lb)

Timothy Grass (Phleum pratense), commonly known as Timothy Phleum, is a cool-season perennial grass valued for its high-quality forage, winter hardiness, and role in soil conservation. Though a short-lived perennial, it remains a top choice for pasture, hay production, and erosion control. Especially favored for cattle and horses, it offers excellent digestibility, high fiber content, and a sweet flavor in its seed heads. Farmers and homesteaders rely on timothy grass seed for lush, productive stands that support long-term forage benefits.

Adaptable to northern climates, Timothy Grass thrives in cold weather and harsh winters, making it a reliable forage crop in challenging conditions. Its fibrous root system not only enhances soil structure but also provides natural erosion control. When properly established, it creates dense pastures that support livestock nutrition and farm sustainability.

Whether used in hayfields, pastures, erosion control, or as a rotational cover crop with legumes, Timothy Grass brings versatility and resilience to any operation. Its history dates back to the 18th century, when Timothy Hanson popularized it for hay production, cementing its place as a staple in sustainable agriculture.

For more perennial cover crops and soil-building options, explore our full collection of cover crop seeds.

Phleum pratense – Perennial Forage Grass

Did You Know? Timothy Grass is sometimes confused with Meadow Foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis), but can be identified by its distinct flower head and swollen stem base.

• Application Rate: 0.5–1 lb/1000 sq ft or 8–10 lb/acre (for pastures or hayfields)
• Inoculant: Not required. This is a nonlegume cover crop and does not rely on Rhizobium bacteria for nitrogen fixation.
• Germination: 7–14 Days
• Plant Height: 24–40"
• Uses: Pasture, hay production, erosion control, pet feed (rabbits, guinea pigs), cover cropping with legumes
• Best Planting Time: Early spring or late summer for strong establishment
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soils with a pH of 5.5–7.5
• Harvesting: Cut in early summer before seed heads fully mature for optimal nutrition