About Zoysia Sod Grass

Homeowners searching for sod grass that tolerates drought and heavy foot traffic without needing large amounts of fertilizer will find that a Zoysia grass lawn meets these needs. Zoysia sod grass is among the most versatile, wear-tolerant varieties of turf grass. It is slow growing when compared to Bermuda and St. Augustine grass, but once it is established Zoysia produces a lush, green turf. 

With its ability to thrive in warm weather, Zoysia has become a dominant sod grass choice in homeowners throughout the southern half of the U.S. Zoysia grass is known to produce a beautiful, dense lawn when used in its optimal growing zones. Whether or not Zoysia is the right sod grass for you depends on various factors like: your lawn care goals or how you plan to use your lawn. 

At RiverView Turf, we offer two zoysia grass varieties: Icon Zoysia and El Toro Zoysia. Contact our team with any questions to ensure you purchase the right sod grass for your lawn.

How to Care for Zoysia Sod

Zoysia sod is a highly versatile sod grass species and is often used in golf courses, parks, athletic fields, and other places that experience high foot traffic. Aeration and dethatching during early spring can help keep Zoysia from forming a dense mat of thatch that prevents air, water and nutrients from reaching the plant’s root system. 

Soil

One benefit of Zoysia grass is the variety of soils it tolerates. Even acid soils are not a problem for Zoysia, however it’s important to know that if the pH is below 6.0 you may need a lime application. Good drainage allows Zoysia to create its deep root system that increases drought tolerance. 

Water

Zoysia lawns grow best with one inch of water per week. Deep, infrequent watering of Zoysia grass will create deep root systems that endure brief droughts. Sandy soils may need to be watered more frequently to maintain color during summer heat and stress. Watering grass early in the morning allows it to dry quickly and will help prevent fungal diseases.

Light

While it prefers full sun, Zoysia grass can tolerate light shade. As the amount of shade increases the grass can become thin allowing weeds to grow and compete.

Temperature

Zoysia is known as a warm-weather grass. Unlike cool-season grasses, zoysia grass loves the heat. The peak growing time is mid-summer when temperatures are the hottest. It will stop growing once the first frost hits, and remain dormant throughout winter. 

Fertilizer

Compared to many other grasses, Zoysia requires less fertilizer — about one to three pounds of nitrogen per thousand sq. ft. of lawn. Sandy soils will require more fertilizer, while clay will require less. It’s important to resist the urge to over-fertilize Zoysia grass. Over-fertilization will cause thatch to build up under the living grass. 

Learn more about other grass species available at RiverView Turf by visiting our grasses page or by contacting our team.