How to Start Zoysia Grass

Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass known for producing a thick, fine turf. Among the warm-season grasses, zoysia grass tolerates cool weather relatively well, although once temperatures plummet, it turns brown, a consideration for northern homeowners to bear in mind when selecting a turf grass. Zoysia grass grows best in full sun or partial shade and will not achieve dense, attractive coverage in deep shade. It grows slowly and requires less frequent mowing than other grasses and competes well with weeds, although you should expect to add periodic dethatching to your lawn and garden chores. Zoysia grass starts best from plugs. As a slow grower, it will take two years under proper care to establish a lawn.

Soil test kit
Topsoil
Herbicide (optional)
12-12-12 starter fertilizer
Tiller
Rake
Zoysia grass plugs
Plugger
Roller (optional)
Hose
Nitrogen fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Collect a soil sample and submit it for testing. Your local extension office often offers soil-testing services or can recommend a private testing lab. Soil tests provide information about nutrient levels, pH and soil texture.
- 2
  Add topsoil as needed to grade the lawn.
- 3
  Remove any weeds or control them with an herbicide.
- 4
  Apply fertilizers and amendments to the surface of the soil as recommended by soil test results. Using a tiller, incorporate amendments into the top 4 to 6 inches of soil. Use 8 lbs. of 12-12-12 turf starter fertilizer per 1,000 square feet and spread it onto the soil. Incorporate it into the top 1 inch of soil. Smooth the soil surface with a rake.
- 5
  Remove soil cores with a bulb planter or plugger. Space the holes 6 inches apart from each other and stagger rows so that holes are diagonal from each other.
- 6
  Insert zoysia grass plugs 2 to 3 inches into the soil. The top of the plug should be even with the soil's surface. Press them in place with your hand or foot or pass over them with a roller.
- 7
  Water the plugs frequently to keep them moist until the grass begins to form a strong root system. Continue providing 1 inch of water per week until the lawn is established.
- 8
  Apply 1 lb. of nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000 square feet per month until the lawn is established.
- 9
  Mow the grass to 1 inch when it reaches a height of 1 1/2 inches.

How to Make Sod Sprigs

When to Broadcast Grass Seed

Lawn Planting