Distribution and biology of timothy grass weeds in the UK

Timothy is a common grass weed that can be found throughout the UK. Find out how to identify and control it.

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Overview

Timothy (Phleum pratense) is a common component of pastures and other sown grassland and can be found in cereal crops in grassy rotations. Timothy emerges from both seed and tussock fragments. Tillering occurs in spring and autumn and stems remain green over winter and grow in the spring; a second period of growth may occur in July.

  • It has value to biodiversity

Description

It is a coarse tufted grass growing to 150 cm tall. Leaves are pale green and pointed. The flowerhead is packed with tiny spikelets so it looks smooth like fur.

Key features

Plant: The plants have an upright habit.




Location and life cycle

Geographic distribution

Timothy is found in a range of grasslands including meadows and rough grassland up to an altitude of 450 m.

Soil type

It prefers heavy slightly damp soils.

Seed statistics

  • Seed longevity: >5 years
  • Seed weight: 0.5 mg
  • Seeds/flower: 1

Management

It does not persist into spring crop breaks or if soils are routinely cultivated.

For advice on herbicides, please speak with your agronomist or adviser.

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When was this information last updated?

This page is based on content from the encyclopaedia of arable weeds publication. Since it was first released in 2008, the publication has been redesigned several times but not revised. However, it remains a good foundation for general information on the distribution and biology of weeds.

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