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When to Plant Zoysia Sod

Zoysia is a warm-season turf that is most often established by laying sod, because only one species, Zoysia japonica, can be seeded, according to Texas A&M Extension. Quick lawn establishment is another reason gardeners choose to plant zoysia sod compared to the sprigs or plugs. You can plant the sod after delivery in a few hours, depending on how large of lawn are needs to be covered. Timing is critical to ensure successful establishment.

  1. Soil pH

    • Zoysia grass needs to grow in a soil pH range between 6.0 to 7.0 in order to access the nutrients in the soil. When grown outside of its preferred range, zoysia grass can discolor, thin out or die. It takes three to six months to alter the pH range of your soil. Gardeners should conduct a soil pH test on their lawn three to six months before planting zoysia sod. Lime can be spread over the lawn to make the soil less acidic, and sulfur can be applied to soil that is too alkaline. Retest three months after spreading a soil amendment.

    Site Preparation

    • The lawn should be free of weeds and other vegetation before sodding can begin. Before spraying a broad-spectrum herbicide, water your lawn every day for two weeks to encourage weed growth. Vigorously growing weeds will absorb herbicides better than weeds that are dormant. Reapply the herbicide until all vegetation is dead. Tilling the first 6 inches of top soil will help break up compacted soil to aid in zoysia sod root establishment. Furthermore, grade the soil so that it is slightly sloped away from the home to help with drainage.

    Timing

    • Zoysia grass can be sodded in the spring through late fall. Because zoysia grass is a warm-season turf, it will go dormant after the first frost. Soil temperatures should be around 50 degrees Fahrenheit for zoysia grass to grow. You can check the soil temperatures in the early spring with a soil thermometer. Make sure that the last freeze and frost has passed before installing your sod. Times of drought or dry spells are bad times to plant your sod. Zoysia sod must be kept moist to establish.

    Planting

    • Zoysia sod must be planted as soon as it is delivered. The sod's root systems easily dry out, which prevents strong root development after planting. If you need a few hours before planting, place your zoysia sod in a shady location. Refrain from stacking up the grass or you can encourage fungal diseases. Water the lawn area and each piece that you lay to keep the sod and root systems moist. It is best to try to lay sod in the morning before hot afternoon temperatures.

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Growing Grass
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