Zoysia sod is a popular choice for homeowners seeking durable and attractive turf, particularly in warmer climates. Its appeal stems from its fine texture, high traffic tolerance, and deep root system, which contributes to excellent drought resistance once the lawn is established. This warm-season grass creates a dense canopy that naturally suppresses weed growth, offering a low-maintenance solution for a lush lawn. Successful installation requires meticulous preparation of the underlying soil, precise placement, and a careful watering regimen to ensure the turf takes root quickly and thrives.
Site Preparation Steps
Preparation begins with clearing the installation area entirely of existing vegetation, including old grass, weeds, and debris. This often requires applying a non-selective herbicide containing glyphosate 10 to 14 days before the sod arrives. Once the growth has died, remove it using a sod cutter or rototiller so the new sod is placed directly onto bare soil.
Improving the soil structure is necessary to promote deep root growth and proper water retention. Compacted soil should be loosened to a depth of at least three to four inches using a rototiller. This reduces density and allows for better air and water penetration, encouraging the Zoysia roots to penetrate downward and establish drought tolerance.
Perform a soil test to determine the nutrient composition and pH level of the ground. Zoysia performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.8 to 7.0). Based on results, incorporate amendments like lime or sulfur to adjust the pH, and apply a starter fertilizer for root development.
The final step involves grading and leveling the area to create a smooth, firm base free of low spots that could harbor standing water. Use a rake to break up large clumps of dirt and ensure the grade slopes slightly away from buildings to prevent drainage issues. A uniform surface is necessary for the sod pieces to make complete contact with the soil for successful rooting.
Laying the Zoysia Rolls
Installation should begin immediately upon delivery, as sod is perishable and must be laid within 24 to 48 hours of harvest. A straight edge, such as a driveway or sidewalk, makes an ideal starting point for the first row to ensure the entire layout is square. The rolls should be unrolled and placed tightly against one another, fitting the edges snugly without overlapping or large gaps.
Work in a pattern similar to laying bricks, staggering the seams in each subsequent row to avoid long, continuous lines. Staggering the joints prevents water runoff from channeling along the seams and promotes uniform establishment. This minimizes the risk of seams drying out or pulling apart as the sod settles.
When laying pieces on a slope, lay the rolls perpendicular to the incline and secure them with sod staples to prevent shifting or washing away. For curves, borders, or obstacles, use a sharp tool to make clean, precise cuts. Avoid leaving small, thin scraps of sod, as these pieces tend to dry out much faster than full rolls.
Once all the sod is laid, the entire area must be rolled with a water-filled lawn roller to press the turf firmly against the prepared soil. Rolling eliminates air pockets that can cause localized drying and ensures maximum contact between the sod’s root system and the ground below. Immediate and thorough watering should follow the rolling process to saturate the sod and the soil beneath it.
Post-Installation Watering and Mowing
The first few weeks after installation are the most significant for establishing a healthy root system. Immediately after installation, the sod must be soaked thoroughly so that the soil underneath is moist to a depth of three to four inches. For the first seven to ten days, the newly laid Zoysia should be watered frequently and shallowly, often twice daily (early morning and late afternoon), to keep the upper soil layer constantly damp.
After the initial establishment phase, the watering frequency should be gradually reduced while the duration of each session is increased. This transition, typically starting around day 10 to 14, encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil as they search for moisture. Deep, infrequent watering strengthens the Zoysia’s root system, enhancing its natural drought tolerance.
The first mowing should occur when the sod has rooted sufficiently to resist being lifted when a corner is gently pulled. This rooting typically happens between 13 and 15 days after installation, provided the watering schedule has been optimal. The mower deck should be set to its highest setting for this initial cut, removing no more than one-third of the leaf blade height.
A general recommended mowing height for established Zoysia is between one and two inches, but the first mow should be done at the higher end of this range. Wait until after the first mowing, and ideally after three or four cuts, to apply any weed control products. This prevents undue stress on the newly forming roots.