Zoysiagrass, originally from Asia, has become a popular choice in the United States due to its ability to thrive during warm months. With its dense and attractive appearance, Zoysiagrass is the perfect addition to any landscape. Let’s take a closer look at this versatile grass and its various species and cultivars.
Zoysiagrass Species
There are several species of Zoysiagrass, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few examples:
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Zoysia japonica: Also known as Japanese or Korean lawngrass, this species has coarse leaves and a light green color. It is usually established through sodding or plugging, although seed options are available.
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Zoysia matrella: Known as Manilagrass, this species has a finer leaf texture than Z. japonica. It is often used for high-quality, high-maintenance turf areas.
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Zoysia tenuifolia: This particular zoysiagrass forms small clumps, giving it a puffy appearance. It is best suited for coastal plains and is commonly used as an ornamental specimen in Asian-themed gardens.
Cultivation and Maintenance
Zoysiagrasses thrive in full sun and partial shade, although they may thin out in dense shade. They grow slowly compared to other grasses and are usually established through sodding or plugging. While seeded types are available, establishing Zoysiagrass from seed can be challenging and time-consuming.
When establishing Zoysiagrass through plugging, use plant plugs measuring 2 inches in diameter and place them 6 inches apart. With proper watering and fertilizing, complete coverage can be achieved in two growing seasons or less. Sodding is the preferred method for instant lawns, as it reduces weed population and provides immediate results.
Zoysiagrass requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. It responds well to 3 to 5 fertilizations per growing season, especially when additional potassium fertilizers are added. Avoid applying fertilizer in the spring until the grass has fully greened up and make the final nitrogen fertilization 6 weeks before the first frost.
Mowing Zoysiagrass can be a bit challenging due to its thickness and leaf composition. It is recommended to mow as low as possible without scalping the grass. A reel-type mower is the best choice, although a rotary mower can be used if the blades are kept sharp and the cutting height is set at 2 inches.
Cultivars for Different Textures
The majority of Zoysiagrass lawns in South Carolina are established with cultivars of Zoysia japonica. These cultivars fall into two primary families, each with its own leaf texture characteristics.
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Meyer Zoysiagrass: Also known as “Z-52,” this variety has a medium-coarse leaf texture and good cold tolerance, making it a popular choice. It spreads rapidly but is susceptible to nematode damage.
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Belaire Zoysiagrass: With a coarser leaf texture and faster establishment rate than Meyer, Belaire is noted for its excellent cold tolerance. However, it is susceptible to large patch disease.
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El Toro Zoysiagrass: This relatively new cultivar offers improved cold tolerance and cool-season color. It grows quickly, produces less thatch than Meyer, and tolerates mowing with a rotary mower.
These are just a few examples of the many Zoysiagrass cultivars available. Each cultivar has its own unique qualities and is suitable for different applications, whether it be residential lawns, golf courses, or sports fields.
Fine-Textured Options
For those seeking a finer leaf texture, there are also fine-textured Zoysiagrass cultivars available:
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Emerald Zoysiagrass: Possibly the most attractive Zoysiagrass, Emerald is well-suited for top-quality lawns with proper maintenance. It has good shade tolerance and high shoot density. However, it is less winter-hardy than other varieties.
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Zeon Zoysiagrass: This fine-textured cultivar provides a thick, dark-green lawn and exhibits good shade and drought tolerance.
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Royal Zoysiagrass: Distinguished by its fine texture, excellent salt tolerance, and rapid regrowth, Royal is suitable for sports fields, fairways, tee boxes, and home lawns.
These are just a few examples of the fine-textured Zoysiagrass options available. Each cultivar offers its own benefits and can be chosen based on specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
Zoysiagrass is a visually appealing and versatile option for lawns and landscapes. With its various species and cultivars, there is a Zoysiagrass type suitable for every need. Whether you prefer a coarse or fine texture, Zoysiagrass offers beauty and durability with proper maintenance. Consider Zoysiagrass for your lawn and enjoy the benefits of this remarkable grass.
