Slow-Growing Grass Seed

Zoysia Grass

• Of the various Zoysia grasses, only Zoysia japonica can be established from seed, according to Richard L. Duble, Turfgrass Specialist at the University of Texas Extension service. Also referred to as Japanese or Korean lawn grass, this type of zoysia grass does best in the southeastern and southwestern parts of the United States, and is generally hardy as far north as the Maryland/Virginia area. The grasses turn brown after the season's initial hard frost, but go green again come springtime. Drought tolerant and tough, zoysia is also suitable for athletic fields and golf courses. Also salt-tolerant, it is a suitable choice for shore-area lawns.

Centipedegrass

• This slow-growing grass is best suited for the southeastern part of the United States. Low-maintenance and disease-resistant, the established centipedegrass lawn is yellow-green in color. It can grow in both full or partial sun. However, it is not drought-resistant or suitable for high-use areas. Do not plant in soils with high levels of phosphorous or low levels of potassium. Centipedegrass requires little fertilization. Regular applications of herbicides may be necessary, as it is easy for weeds to gain a foothold in centipedegrass.

Eco-Lawn Grass Seed

• This company's proprietary grass seed formula produces slow-growing lawn seed suitable for northern and Canadian climates. Because the grasses grow a deep root system, fertilizing is unnecessary. Pesticide applications are also not needed. With little mowing required, this drought-tolerant grass is low-maintenance. Its lawns eventually appear dark green and thick, but take a full year to become established. If overseeding an old lawn rather than establishing a new one, expect a four to five year period to elapse before the Eco-Lawn dominates.