Zoysia grass is a popular turf choice known for its dense growth, which effectively suppresses weeds and creates an attractive lawn. Growing zones are important for Zoysia’s successful establishment and health, as they predict how well a plant will thrive in a particular climate.
Understanding Zoysia’s Climate Needs
Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass, with active growth beginning in late spring and peaking during hot summer months. It possesses excellent heat tolerance, allowing it to maintain its vibrant color and health even in high temperatures.
Zoysia is remarkably drought-tolerant due to its deep and extensive root system. This allows the grass to efficiently conserve moisture and access deeper water reserves, reducing the need for frequent irrigation once established. Zoysia also demonstrates cold tolerance, setting it apart from many other warm-season grasses. As temperatures drop in the fall, Zoysia enters dormancy, turning golden-brown, and greens up again as soil temperatures rise in the spring.
Identifying Zoysia’s Ideal Growing Zones
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plant Hardiness Zone Map indicates regions based on their average annual extreme minimum winter temperatures. These zones help determine which plants are most likely to survive the winter. Zoysia grass generally thrives across USDA Zones 5 to 11.
Zoysia performs well in the southern and transition zones of the United States. In warmer zones, the grass enjoys an extended period of green growth, actively growing from April to October. In colder zones like 5 or 6, Zoysia experiences a longer dormancy, browning earlier and greening up later. Newer varieties have been specifically bred for improved cold tolerance, allowing Zoysia to flourish in regions like the mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
Growing Zoysia Beyond Ideal Zones and Care Considerations
Cultivating Zoysia grass at the fringes of its ideal USDA zones presents challenges. In zones colder than its optimal range, such as the northern parts of Zone 5, Zoysia faces an increased risk of winterkill, especially during its first winter. Extended periods of cold temperatures can cause damage, and the grass may experience a longer dormancy, resulting in a delayed green-up in spring. In hotter and drier extremes of its range, while Zoysia is drought-tolerant, it may still require supplemental irrigation during prolonged periods of extreme heat and drought to prevent it from entering dormancy or experiencing stress.
Care considerations for Zoysia vary by zone. Planting time is recommended in late spring to early summer when soil temperatures consistently reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing the grass ample time to establish before winter. For colder zones, preparing the lawn for winter involves gradually reducing mowing height, avoiding mowing when dormant, and ensuring adequate hydration before the onset of freezing temperatures. Established Zoysia lawns often require minimal winter watering, but newly planted areas or those in unusually dry winters may benefit from occasional deep watering. Applying a slow-release, potassium-rich fertilizer in the fall can also enhance cold tolerance in colder climates.