Zoysia

Description

Zoysia is a warm-season grass that is known for its low maintenance and drought tolerance. It is a popular choice for lawns, golf courses, and sports fields. Zoysia has a slow growth rate, which means it requires less mowing and fertilization compared to other grasses. It is also known for its dense growth, which makes it more resistant to weeds and pests.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Zoysia has a fine texture and a dark green color. Its leaves are long and narrow, and they have a pointed tip. Zoysia grows in a dense mat, which makes it look like a carpet. It has a slow growth rate and can grow up to 6 inches in height. Zoysia also produces seed heads, which are small and spiky.

Care Guide

Zoysia requires less water compared to other grasses, but it still needs to be watered deeply once a week. It also needs to be fertilized twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Zoysia prefers well-draining soil, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It also needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Zoysia can grow in hardiness zones 6 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Zoysia is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some. Common pests include armyworms, chinch bugs, and grubs. Common diseases include brown patch and dollar spot. Proper maintenance, including regular watering and fertilization, can help prevent these problems.

Habitat

Zoysia is native to Asia, but it is now widely grown in other parts of the world. It prefers warm climates and can grow in a variety of soil types. Zoysia is commonly used for lawns, golf courses, and sports fields.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Zoysia a good choice for a low-maintenance lawn?

A: Yes, Zoysia is a good choice for a low-maintenance lawn because it has a slow growth rate and requires less watering and fertilization compared to other grasses.

Q: Can Zoysia grow in shade?

A: Zoysia prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. However, it may not grow as dense in shaded areas.

Q: How often should Zoysia be mowed?

A: Zoysia has a slow growth rate, so it only needs to be mowed once every 1-2 weeks during the growing season.

Q: How long does it take for Zoysia to establish?

A: It can take up to 2 years for Zoysia to establish fully, but it will begin to spread and fill in within the first year.

Related Plants

• Bermuda grass
• Centipede grass
• St. Augustine grass

References

• “Zoysia Grass.” The Spruce, 21 Apr. 2021, www.thespruce.com/zoysia-grass-2152973.
• “Zoysiagrass.” University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, 20 Apr. 2021, www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-database/grasses/zoysiagrass.aspx.
• “Zoysia Grass Information.” Lawn Care Academy, 21 Apr. 2021, www.lawncareacademy.com/zoysia-grass-information/.