Zoysiagrass is one of the most common types of grass you’ll find in Florida lawns, and for good reason—it grows dense, lush, and green in the state’s unique hot and humid climate. But is Zoysia the right grass type for your yard? Read on to discover the pros and cons of this grass species, so you can determine if it’s the best choice for your lawn.
Zoysiagrass Pros
There are many positive features and attributes of Zoysiagrass. Some of the unique strengths of this grass type include:
- Tactile Benefits. Zoysiagrass feels incredible underfoot—it’s one of the best “barefoot grasses” to walk on. If you’re looking for a soft, great-feeling lawn, you can’t go wrong with this grass species.
- Less Weeding. Zoysiagrass is technically an invasive grass. It’s a true competitor, which means it will crowd out most other plants. When it comes to lawns, that’s a good thing–Zoysiagrass naturally crowds out most weeds on its own. That means you’ll spend less time weeding and more time enjoying lush, healthy grass.
- Sun-Tolerant. Florida’s hot, sunny climate is a great match for Zoysiagrass. While this species likes full sun, it can tolerate light shade. It’s also generally drought-tolerant. In times of severe drought, this grass type will go dormant and turn brown, but it will likely survive.
- Less Maintenance. In terms of fertilization and irrigation, Zoysiagrass is very easy to maintain compared to other grass types. It only requires minimal nitrogen during the growing season, but you should always fertilize in the fall to maintain a better color during the cooler seasons. Zoysia is also water-efficient, needing only about one-half-inch of water each week to thrive.
Learn More: What’s the Best Type of Grass for Central Florida?
Cons of Zoysiagrass
While there are several advantages of Zoysiagrass—especially in Florida’s unique climate, this species has some drawbacks, too. They include:
- Hard to Establish. Zoysiagrass is a slow grower. Whether you’re starting a lawn from grass plugs or seed, it’s very slow to establish. Often, starting from sod is recommended.
- Hard to Mow. Zoysiagrass is often hard to mow, thanks to the toughness of the stems and leaves and its sideways growing pattern. Many rotary mowers have been ruined when homeowners attempt to cut very tall Zoysiagrass too short. The grass works best with occasional vertical mowing, so it’s best to use a reel mower.
- Thatch Production. Zoysiagrass produces a lot of thatch. When these layers exceed 1 inch, you’ll need to perform vertical mowing along with core aeration. The best time to do this is in the summer, so air and water can fully permeate the soil.
Learn More: Which Lawn Should I Choose for My Yard (Zoysia, Bahia, St. Augustine)
Is Zoysiagrass Right for Your Lawn?
Just like all other grass types, there are many pros and cons to choosing Zoysiagrass for your lawn. What’s the best way to determine whether this grass type is best for your yard? Reach out to the lawn care experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Apopka—we’ll help you determine whether Zoysia or another grass type is ideal for your yard, considering its specific soil, shade, and moisture conditions. Call us today at (407) 880-6655 to schedule your free consultation!
