Zoysia grass is thought of by many as the 'Cadillac of Lawn Grasses' because of its dark green color, density, low growth habit, and higher price.

Meyers Zoysia is a carpet-like grass that will tolerate slightly more shade than the Bermudas, but it is much slower at spreading than Bermuda. Zoysia has a dense root system and to maintain the best appearance, clippings need to be picked up while mowing. Meyers Zoysia does not perform well over the root systems of large trees.

Due to its extreme hardiness, Zoysia is being used more and more on golf courses as well as fine homes. Regular watering, mowing and fertilization make this an outstanding lawn grass.

This grass simply cannot be neglected for long periods of time, but if fertilized once or twice annually, watered as needed and cut regularly, it makes a lawn in sun and/or moderate shade that is the envy of any neighborhood.

Expect to pay more for these grasses from your local sod dealer or landscaper. Zoysia simply takes longer to fill back in after having been cut at sod farms. This decreases supply and growing demand drives the price up. Due to maintanence requirements and price, we think that Zoysia is best suited for smaller lawns 10,000 square feet or under in size.

Culture

In past years 'Meyer' and 'Emerald Green' have been the most widely known and available Zoysias used in the United States. They must be propagated vegetatively and rooting and growth is slow. Solid sodding is recommended, as is an irrigation system. We prefer Meyers over Emerald Green as Meyers is easier to mow and manage.

Zoysia prefers full sun, however will tolerate light shade fairly well. It does not perform well above the root systems of large trees. It is adaptable to many types of soil so long as it isn't too compacted and their is good drainage.

Always water Zoysia grass in the morning hours. Watering in late evening can induce the growth of damaging fungus.

Mowing

Zoysias grow slowly and require infrequent mowing, but they are so dense that a good sharp mower with adequate power should be used and cutting should be on a regular schedule. If "scalped" in mowing and subjected to other unfavorable treatment, Zoysias are slow to recover. If lower maintenance and less management is is your thing, check out Centipede Grass.

Fertilization

Begin fertilization in spring just after new green growth has emerged. At this time, fertilize with a slow-release, high nitrogen fertilizer such as 27-4-6. Follow instructions on the package for application and spreading rates. Fertilize again in early to mid-summer with 27-4-6 or 16-4-8. Finally, in fall, apply a good fall feed fertilizer containing more phosphorus and potassium such as 5-10-15.

Zoysia Grass tolerates a wide range in soil reaction, but performs best between pH 6.5 and 8.0. At pH levels below 6.5 limestone should be added according to soil test recommendations. To determine whether or not you need to apply lime to the lawn, test your soil, or have it tested for pH through your local Extension Service. The Extension Service will provide a detailed analysis of the soil samples and give recommendations as to whether, or how much lime need be applied to correct soil pH.

Pests

Zoysia Grass produces such dense turf that weed invasion is resisted.

Meyers Zoysia is susceptible to spittlebug infestation, which is easily controlled with Triazicide or other insecticides.

The grass may develop bald spots when growing near the root systems of large trees. Funguses will occasionally attack Zoysia however there are fungicides that can be used to prevent or control them.