8 Things You Need to Know About Your Zoysia Lawn - Turf Masters (2024)

8 Things You Need to Know About Your Zoysia Lawn - Turf Masters (1)

Zoysia grass is a warm-season turf that prefers a lot of sunlight. It is native to Asiaand is well-suited for the Southeast United States. A zoysia lawn is perennial and provides a natural barrier against weeds.

8 Zoysia Lawn Tips

Here are 8 things you should know about your Zoysia lawn:

  1. A zoysia lawn has a better shade tolerance than other warm-season grasses (like bermuda).
  2. Zoysia has several varieties in various textures from very fine to medium textures. Some of these varieties include:
    • Meyer zoysia
    • Emerald zoysia
    • El toro zoysia
    • Zeon zoysia
  3. Sunlight is one of the most important factors in achieving a healthy zoysia lawn. At least 7 hours of sunlight per day is recommended.
  4. Zoysia requires about 1 inch of water per week. During times of extreme drought, zoysia may go dormant. When ample rainfall or water returns, zoysia grass will resume growth.
  5. The soil should be well-drained for your zoysia grass. Standing water is particularly harmful to your zoysia since it is prone to a fungal disease called zoysia patch which is aggravated by dampness and humidity.
  6. Zoysia patch fungus creates large, unsightly patches that will continue to grow throughout the growing season. Although not dead, these patches will take time to recover. Read our post on how to avoid it here.
  7. Zoysia requires a more neutral pH of at least 6.5. For this reason, it is recommended that granular lime (a calcium-containing material) be spread evenly across the turf to raise the soil pH toward a more neutral or alkaline level. (We typically do this on warm-season grasses like bermuda and zoysia in the early fall.)
  8. Your zoysia lawn should be maintained at a height between 0.75″ and 1.5″. Some of the wider blade varieties can be maintained slightly taller.

Give us a call if you have any questions about your zoysia lawn. We would be happy to give you some insight and advice as well as a free quote.

8 Things You Need to Know About Your Zoysia Lawn - Turf Masters (2024)

FAQs

What is the problem with zoysia grass? ›

Zoysia grass is susceptible to a number of fungal diseases. The most common is large brown patch, which begins as small circular patches of brown, lifeless grass that can enlarge and join together.

How often should I water my zoysia grass? ›

When out of dormancy (when green and actively growing), Zoysia grass typically requires 1 inch of water per week. During very hot weather, Zoysia may require as much as 2 inches per week. During times of extreme drought, Zoysia grass may go dormant. Think of dormancy as a type of hibernation.

What is the best fertilizer to put on zoysia grass? ›

4. Simple Lawn Solutions 15-0-15 Liquid Fertilizer – Best for summer. Potassium-rich fertilizer applied in mid to late summer protects Zoysiagrass from winter damage. Simple Lawn Solutions 15-0-15 Liquid Fertilizer gives Zoysia the potassium it needs to withstand winter dormancy and resume healthy growth in the spring.

How do I make my zoysia grass thicker and greener? ›

Your grass will grow thicker and healthier with regular fertilization during the growing season. The need for fertilizer varies based on the square footage and climate. Typically, Zoysia grass requires only minimal nitrogen, about 1 pound per 1,000 square feet during the growing season.

What kills Zoysia grass? ›

If Zoysia Grass has appeared on your lawn, we recommend a post-emergent spot treatment with Eraser 41% Herbicide. Eraser is a non-selective herbicide that kills any plant that comes in contact with it so be careful not to get it on desired grass.

How do I keep my Zoysia grass healthy? ›

Fertilization is essential to keep Zoysia grass healthy and vibrant. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and early summer to promote growth. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to thatch buildup.

How long does Zoysia sod take to root? ›

Although sodding is much faster than the natural lawn seeding and growing process, it isn't instantaneous. Technically, once it s been installed, sod should begin to take root within 10-14 days. And with the right balance of sun, air, and water, your sod will fully take root in 2-6 weeks.

How to green up zoysia grass? ›

Fertilize Zoysia grass in the spring as it begins to green up and again in late spring or early summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with a suitable nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (N-P-K) ratio for Zoysia grass, such as 16-4-8, to promote healthy growth and color.

Should I rake my Zoysia grass? ›

If possible, use a mower with a bagger to collect the clippings and remove any dead material left from winter dormancy. Alternatively, the lawn can be hand raked to remove the excessive dead leaf material from the lawn surface. Grass clippings decompose quickly and do not contribute to thatch.

Can you put Miracle Grow on Zoysia grass? ›

Can you put Miracle-Gro on Zoysia grass? Miracle-Gro can be used on Zoysia grass, but it's essential to choose the appropriate Miracle-Gro product for lawns and follow the instructions for application rates and timing. Also, remember to apply it sparingly and avoid over-fertilization, as it can harm the grass.

What will make Zoysia grass spread faster? ›

"If I buy more plugs for a small area will it establish quicker?"
  1. The biggest factor in determining the speed at which your Zenith Zoysia plugs will establish and spread is your area's climate. ...
  2. Another key factor in spread rate is the time of year. ...
  3. Zoysia likes slow-release nitrogen based fertilizers.
Nov 2, 2021

How do you prepare the soil for Zoysia grass? ›

Prepare the soil by loosening to a depth of 1–2 inches. Conduct a soil test to be sure your soil has the proper nutrients it needs for a healthy lawn. The pH should be between 5.8 and 6.5. Apply fertilizer and soil amendment at the recommended rates.

What is the disadvantage of zoysia grass? ›

Often, the lawn will stay brown well into Spring, which is a deal breaker for some. So, if year-round color is necessary for you, you may want to think twice before choosing zoysia grass. Zoysia will not tolerate heavy traffic during these dormant periods. Another negative is the very poor shade tolerance under trees.

How do you fill bare spots in Zoysia grass? ›

Keep your zoysia lawn at least 1 ½ inches tall and remove no more than 1/3 of its total height with each mowing. Taller grass forms deeper roots and is more pest and drought resistant. With proper care the healthy grass may fill in the dead areas. Otherwise try seeding or planting sprigs in these bare spots.

Will dead zoysia come back? ›

There is no way to revive dead grass, but you can lay new sod to grow your landscape again from scratch. If you notice brown, bare, or thinning areas in your lawn, these are clear signs that you need to sow new seed or replace the sod.

What are the pros and cons of zoysia grass? ›

Zoysia Grass Pros and Cons
Pros of Zoysia GrassCons of Zoysia Grass
Stays green most of the yearCan't tolerate heavy shade
Can withstand heavy foot trafficTakes 2 years to grow
Easy to maintainCan be invasive
Weed resistantTurns brown in drought conditions
1 more row
Feb 20, 2024

Is Zoysia grass bad for the environment? ›

The dense growth of Zoysia grass helps control soil erosion, preventing sediment runoff into water bodies, which is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Zoysia grass has a natural resistance to many common lawn pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides that can harm the environment.

Why is zoysia grass turning brown? ›

For instance, zoysia grass doesn't do well in standing water. This means that if you overwater your lawn or have areas where water gathers, then parts of your lawn might start to turn brown due to root rot or disease. On the other hand, zoysia grass can also suffer from too little water.

Does Zoysia grass overtake other grass? ›

Will Zoysia Grass Take Over Other Grasses? Zoysia is considered invasive and is known to take over lawns, when given enough time. That includes crowding out other grasses that exist in your lawn or newly seeded grasses that you plant.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Van Hayes

Last Updated:

Views: 5993

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (46 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Van Hayes

Birthday: 1994-06-07

Address: 2004 Kling Rapid, New Destiny, MT 64658-2367

Phone: +512425013758

Job: National Farming Director

Hobby: Reading, Polo, Genealogy, amateur radio, Scouting, Stand-up comedy, Cryptography

Introduction: My name is Van Hayes, I am a thankful, friendly, smiling, calm, powerful, fine, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.