For the first 2 weeks after establishment, water the zoysiagrass lightly every day in the absence of rainfall to ensure the survival of the turfgrass plants. After the first 2 weeks, the frequency of watering can be reduced. It is recommended to water less frequently but apply more water at one time to saturate the soil to promote deeper rooting of the newly established turfgrass.
To look their best, zoysiagrasses require frequent fertilization. Periodic soil testing should be conducted every 2 to 3 years as the basis for major applications of lime and fertilization. This will help maintain the proper soil pH between the desired range of 6.0 to 6.5 and keep the nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium levels at recommended levels.
For minimum maintenance, it is recommended to apply between 2 to 4 pounds of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of zoysiagrass lawn per year. To accomplish this, apply a complete fertilizer such as 16-4-8, 13-13-13, or 10-10-10 at least three times a year in April, June, and August (see Table 1). Potassium helps turfgrasses survive stress. Zoysiagrasses growing on sandy soils may need 1 pound of potassium per 1,000 square feet of lawn area per year. September is a good time to apply potassium to improve winter survival and cold tolerance. A fertilizer such as a 16-0-44, 15-0-15, 10-20-20, or 0-24-24 can be used for this fall application of potassium.
To produce a high-quality, dark green zoysiagrass lawn, it is recommended to apply between 6 to 8 pounds of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of zoysiagrass lawn per year. Apply a complete fertilizer such as 16-4-8, 13-13-13, or 10-10-10 once a month starting in April through September. As with the minimum maintenance program, apply potassium in the fall to improve the winter survival and cold tolerance of zoysiagrasses.
Zoysiagrasses require watering or irrigating, especially if parasitized by nematodes, which greatly restrict the root system. During prolonged droughts, it may be necessary to water or irrigate zoysiagrasses every other day during the summer months. Irrigation on an as-needed basis is an excellent way to schedule watering of any turfgrass, as long as the proper amount of water is applied when needed, not at a later or more convenient time. When using this approach, water at the first sign of drought stress or wilt, and apply at least 3/4 inch of water (465 gallons of water per 1,000 square feet) per irrigation. Water or irrigate early in the morning while dew is still on the turfgrass plants.
Contact your local Cooperative Extension office for more information on growing zoysiagrass in your area.
