When it comes to cultivating a healthy grass turf, the type you choose depends largely on the conditions of your locality. How much sun and rain do you get? How cold are the winters- and how long do they last? What are the soil conditions in your particular region?
This equation can get even more complicated, considering that Texas is home to multiple geographic regions, as well as a broad variety of climates. If you’re shopping for grass, you need to know what will work best for your particular area and soil type.
The Top 3 Grass Types For Texas are compared at length, in the linked article from our friends at TLC Landscapes. But for now, we’re going to focus on zoysia grass, a definite favorite here in North Texas, due to its versatility and easy care.
Features of Zoysia
Zoysia grass produces a bright green turf with somewhat thin blades that create a notably soft carpet. This makes it a great choice for residential lawns with pets and small children.
It’s also popular on golf courses and other large stretches of rolling turf, for several reasons. Not only is zoysia grass an attractive and sun-loving ground cover, it also decreases erosion on sloped terrains.
Weather
Zoysia grass is native to warm, humid climates. It enjoys heat and needs a decent amount of precipitation. This makes it a good candidate for Texas lawns, as it fares well in temperate weather patterns, and tends to simply go dormant in cooler seasons. Appropriate fertilization practices will adequately prepare it to withstand the occasional winter freeze.
Irrigation
Zoysia grass does need a decent amount of watering, so you need to watch your rain gauge if your area is experiencing a drought. However, it can withstand dry spells a bit more heartily than some other popular grass types. Aim for at least an inch of irrigation per week, and remember that deeper watering is more efficient than frequent watering.
Sun Vs. Shade
This grass type can handle some shade without sustaining any damage, but it really prefers a decent amount of daily sunlight. Its high tolerance for lengthy sun exposure makes zoysia grass a good choice for broader stretches of lawn, such as larger yards, commercial lawns, and golfing greens. If you’re set on zoysia for your residential lawn, but experience extensive shade coverage, you may consider talking to a professional about whether a grass blend would be a feasible option.
Perks
Zoysia grass is known for requiring infrequent mowing compared to many other popular ground covers, as it is a fairly slow grower. It is also appreciated for its resistance to lawn pests, fungus, and invasive plants. Zoysia can also withstand a good bit of foot traffic despite its thin blades.
Propagation
Zoysia grass can either be installed via grass seeds or sod installation. Sod grass is more expensive than seeds, but it provides an established product that doesn’t need the initial care required to cultivate grass seeds. For families with children and pets, sod installation is far more user-friendly, as the “keep off the grass” sign can go down only a couple of short weeks after the job is completed.
