Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (2024)

Helpful tips and information about your Zoysia lawn

Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (1)

Zoysia Grass

Zoysia lawns offer superior turf density, providing a natural barrier against weeds. Zoysia is also more shade tolerant than other warm-season grasses like Bermuda. Several cultivars of Zoysia are common in our area, including Meyer, Emerald, El Toro and Zeon.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (2)

    Sunlight

    Sunlight is one of the most important factors in achieving a healthy Zoysia lawn. Zoysia is considered a warm-season grass. As such, it requires plenty of sunlight. At least 7 hours a day of full sunlight is recommended for most varieties. Some varieties will tolerate slightly less direct sunlight but will not achieve the density it might otherwise. Even shaded areas behind trees or between structures that would otherwise be considered full sun can contribute to the thinning of Zoysia grass. When it comes to Zoysia, with a few exceptions, there is no such thing as too much sun.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (3)

    Watering

    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. This is a survival mechanism. People often think their grass has died. When ample rainfall or water returns, the Zoysia grass will resume growth, provided this occurs in the warmer months. The soil should be well-drained. Standing water is particularly harmful to your Zoysia grass since it is prone to a fungal disease called Zoysia patch which is aggravated by dampness and humidity. Address drainage issues to alleviate standing water. Core aeration can help compacted soil. Remember, infrequent, deep watering is better than shallow, frequent watering. A good way to determine an inch of water is the tuna-can trick. Place an empty tuna can in an irrigation or sprinkler zone. Turn on the water and take note of how long it takes for the can to fill. You now know how long you need to run the irrigation to get an inch of water. The time of day you water or irrigate your lawn is important! Irrigation should be done early in the morning rather than in the evening. Evening irrigation increases the chances for fungal diseases.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (4)

    Mowing

    Your Zoysia lawn should be maintained at a height between .75" and 1.5". Some of the wider blade varieties can be maintained slightly taller. You must cut the grass frequently enough so that no more than 1/3 of the grass blade is removed in one cutting. Always use a sharp blade. A dull blade tears the grass blade rather than making a clean cut. This not only makes the tips appear brown, but provides an entrance way for pathogens. While a sharp blade is important for all grass types, the turf density of Zoysia as well as its susceptibility to Zoysia patch fungus make this especially important.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (5)

    Weed Control

    The Southeast United States is blessed to have two seasons of weeds: Summer weeds and winter weeds. Most of us are more familiar with summer weeds such as crabgrass and dandelions, but winter weeds such as annual bluegrass and henbit can be just as bothersome. Crabgrass and annual bluegrass (Poa Annua) are particularly troublesome because they can displace the Zoysia grass, stealing valuable nutrients from your lawn. Once established, these weeds can be difficult to eradicate. Although the density of Zoysia helps provide a natural barrier to weeds, it is by no means, "weed free". That's why we provide four pre-emergent (weed prevention) application rounds per year. Two in the spring and two in the fall. These pre-emergent act by preventing weed seeds from rooting in the soil and are effective on a broad variety of weeds. Newly sodded lawns require a special type of pre-emergent that prevent weed seeds from sending up new shoots. While this type of pre-emergent does not prevent as many types of weeds, it is very good at preventing grassy weeds and will not harm new sod. This product is not available without a special license. We can't prevent all weeds. So when one of our Route Managers treat your lawn he or she will spot treat any existing weeds. This is called post-emergent weed control. Should you decide to do your own weed control, please read and follow all product instructions. Please be extra careful with post-emergent weed control. Remember, Zoysia never goes completely dormant. During all times of the year it is susceptible to damage from improperly applied herbicides.

    Ready To Turn Care of Your Zoysia Grass Over To A Professional?

    Contact The Nice Guys

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (6)

    Fertilization

    Zoysia grass is a high user of nitrogen. That's why we provide plenty of high-quality nitrogen as well as other nutrients throughout the year that your lawn needs. But be careful. Fertilizers containing high percentages of nitrogen can "burn" or "streak" your lawn when misapplied. While fertilization is important, so is the timing of the application. Never put heavy nitrogen fertilizer applications on dormant Zoysia. Also, nitrogen should never be added too late in the season. This can increase the chances of certain diseases. If you have questions about when to fertilize your Zoysia lawn, feel free to contact us, even if you are not a customer. Also, your county extension agent is a great resource.We use commercial-grade spreaders calibrated for the products we use. These fertilizers allow for time released feeding to prevent damaging your lawn and to constantly release nutrients between applications. Additionally, our Route Managers receive ongoing continuing education on the best way to apply these products. Should you choose to do it yourself, we recommend you choose a slow release fertilizer as well. Always read and follow the product label.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (7)

    Nutrients

    The soil throughout much of the Southeast is considered acidic or low on the "pH" scale. For optimal results, Zoysia grass 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 grass in the early Fall.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (8)

    Zoysia Patch Fungus

    Zoysia Patch fungus does not kill the grass. It does however create large, unsightly patches that will continue to grow throughout the growing season. Although not dead, these patches will take time to recover. We recommend three fungicide treatments per year for Zoysia lawns. One in the spring and two in late summer and fall.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (9)

    Core Aeration

    Core aeration is an important and often overlooked cultural practice in achieving the best from your Zoysia lawn. Core aeration is the process of removing thousands of "plugs" from your lawn. These plugs are about the size of a wine cork. This process does many things. It loosens the soil providing better oxygenation. It drives root depth, helping your lawn better tolerate drought. It allows granular fertilizers to better incorporate into the soil. It helps with drainage and helps prevent Zoysia patch. Because Zoysia grass spreads by special surface roots called stolons, these stolons are often cut during the process of core aeration. When they are cut, they multiply, helping your lawn grow thicker faster.

    Still Have Questions About Your Zoysia Grass?

    Call Us

    Understanding Your Zoysia Lawn

    Read our blogs to learn more about your Zoysia grass.

    Read Our Blogs

    All About Zoysia GrassThings You Need To Know About Your Zoysia GrassZoysia PatchHow to Mow your Lawn in the WinterZoysia Patch Fungus

    Frequently Asked Questions About Zoysia Grass

    How do I care for my Zoysia in the winter months?

    Dormant Zoysia lawns do not need winter mowing. Zoysia grass needs to receive 1 to 1 1/4 inches of water per week. Spot-treat winter weeds.

    What are some common Zoysia grasses in the southeast?

    Meyer Zoysia is a medium textured variety. From a distance, it may have the appearance of Fescue, except of course in the cooler months when it is dormant (unlike Bermuda grass, Zoysia never goes completely dormant).
    Emerald Zoysia is a very fine textured grass. When maintained at a low height, it may resemble a putting green.
    El Toro Zoysia is a newer variety that resembles Meyer Zoysia but with better cool weather retention and faster growing.
    Zeon Zoysia is a fine-textured grass with improved shade and drought tolerance.

    How much water does Zoysia grass need when it's actively growing?

    Zoysia grass typically requires 1 inch of water per week. During very hot weather, it may require as much as 2 inches per week.

    Can I overwater my Zoysia?

    Yes, too much water for zoysia could be a bad thing. Zoysia is fairly drought tolerant and doesn't do well with standing water or overwatering. Too much water can make your Zoysia lawn susceptible to disease and damage the roots.

    How often should I mow Zoysia lawn?

    We recommended mowing frequently enough so that you never cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade in one cutting. Your Zoysia lawn should be maintained at a height between .75 and 1.5 inches. Some of the wider blade varieties can be maintained slightly taller.

    How much sunlight does Zoysia grass need?

    Zoysia loves the sun. At least 7 hours a day of full sunlight is recommended for most varieties.

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass (2024)

    FAQs

    Learn how to care for your Zoysia Grass? ›

    Your Zoysia lawn should be maintained at a height between . 75" and 1.5". Some of the wider blade varieties can be maintained slightly taller. You must cut the grass frequently enough so that no more than 1/3 of the grass blade is removed in one cutting.

    How do I keep my zoysia grass healthy? ›

    Maintain a healthy and dense Zoysia lawn through proper mowing, watering, and fertilization to minimize opportunities for weed growth. Additionally, use pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weed seeds from germinating.

    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 often should I water my zoysia grass? ›

    Zoysia lawns typically need 1 inch of rainfall or irrigation per week. Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep, drought-resistant roots. Continue to maintain your Zoysia grass lawn at 1 to 2 inches tall.

    What are the downsides of zoysia grass? ›

    Zoysia grass is intolerant of standing water and may die out in low areas where water can collect. Although root rots may be obvious, many other problems may not be as obvious. Shallow rooting, increased susceptibility to disease, and attractiveness to grubs are a few of the other problems improper watering can cause.

    Should you leave grass clippings on zoysia grass? ›

    If those clumps are left to sit on the lawn, then it can cause the live grass beneath it to be subject to disease, rot and ultimately death. Bagging your zoysia grass clippings will allow the grass that is left after a mowing to grow and thrive in a healthy manner.

    How to make zoysia grass greener? ›

    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.

    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

    Are coffee grounds good for Zoysia grass? ›

    Coffee grounds can also contribute to better aeration and drainage, which leads to a healthier lawn, but unfortunately the caffeine is just too damaging. However, you can still keep your coffee waste out of the bin by adding it to your compost, where it can indirectly benefit the health of your soil.

    How to thicken zoysia grass? ›

    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.

    How long does it take a sprinkler to water 1 inch? ›

    On average, it will take 30 minutes to get a half inch of water. So, 20 minutes, three times per week will give a lawn about an inch of water.

    What does overwatered Zoysia look like? ›

    Off-color or Discolored Grass

    A big sign of overwatering grass is color – or rather lack of color. Your lawn should be a deep green color. But if it looks yellow, brown, or even pale in nature, it could be getting too much water.

    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's the best fertilizer for zoysia grass? ›

    The best fertilizer for Zoysia grass is one with a balanced nutrient ratio suitable for the specific needs of the grass, such as a 16-4-8 or 10-10-10 ratio. It's also beneficial to choose a fertilizer that includes essential micronutrients.

    Why is Zoysia so hard to grow? ›

    Grass seed, including Zoysia seed, is fragile and can be difficult to establish. Seeding and initial care must be performed during the warmest times of the year, when soil moisture levels are hard to control. Extreme care must be used to keep the seed and seedlings from drying out and dying.

    How to get zoysia grass to fill in? ›

    Overseeding zoysia grass is necessary to cover bald lawn patches and create a healthy lawn. You should overseed lawns in the late spring or early fall as temperatures are favorable for seed germination. If you overseed in the fall, spread seeds at least 60 days before the first frost.

    How to keep zoysia grass disease free? ›

    Tips For Preventing Zoysia Patch
    1. Always bag and remove clippings when mowing your Zoysia lawn.
    2. Core-aerate your lawn once per year to improve drainage.
    3. Don't mow when grass is wet.
    4. Water deeply once per week between 5 and 10 am.
    5. Prune trees and shrubs to raise the canopy and to improve light and airflow.
    Dec 13, 2016

    Why do you put sand on Zoysia grass? ›

    Adding sand to Zoysia grass is generally necessary if your soil has poor drainage or excessive compaction. Sand can improve drainage and help prevent waterlogging, but assessing your soil's needs through a soil test before applying sand is crucial.

    How do I make my zoysia grass thicker? ›

    Whether you use an irrigation system or nature to water your lawn, keep track of how much water your lawn is getting. Zoysiagrass typically needs about one inch of water a week once it is established. Irrigating deeply and thoroughly encourages deeper root growth, which thicker lawns require.

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Geoffrey Lueilwitz

    Last Updated:

    Views: 5327

    Rating: 5 / 5 (80 voted)

    Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Geoffrey Lueilwitz

    Birthday: 1997-03-23

    Address: 74183 Thomas Course, Port Micheal, OK 55446-1529

    Phone: +13408645881558

    Job: Global Representative

    Hobby: Sailing, Vehicle restoration, Rowing, Ghost hunting, Scrapbooking, Rugby, Board sports

    Introduction: My name is Geoffrey Lueilwitz, I am a zealous, encouraging, sparkling, enchanting, graceful, faithful, nice person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.