Zoysia Seasonal Care Calendar
WINTER (dormant, brown): Soil test, apply lime/sulfur if needed, plan spring inputs. Do NOT apply RoundUp to dormant zoysia. LATE WINTER/EARLY SPRING: Apply first pre-emergent before soil hits 55°F. Do NOT fertilize yet — wait for full green-up. SPRING (soil 65°F+, fully green): First fertilizer application at low rate, begin mowing at 1.5-2 inches, treat any Large Patch with fungicide. SUMMER (peak growth): Mow weekly, water 1 inch/week, second fertilizer app if needed, dethatch and aerate in early summer. LATE SUMMER: Final light fertilizer app by early September, monitor for dollar spot. FALL: Apply preventive fungicide for Large Patch when soil drops below 75°F, fall pre-emergent, reduce mowing as growth slows. Zoysia greens up LATER than bermuda in spring and stays green LONGER in fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does zoysia come out of dormancy?
Zoysia breaks dormancy when soil temps reach 50°F — slightly later than bermuda. Full green-up takes 2-4 weeks. Don't fertilize until the lawn is at least 50% green.
Does zoysia stay green longer than bermuda in fall?
Yes. Zoysia typically holds its green color 2-3 weeks longer than bermuda in fall because its dormancy trigger is 50°F soil temp versus bermuda's 55°F.
What should I do for zoysia in winter?
Nothing. Dormant zoysia needs no water, no fertilizer, and no mowing. Avoid traffic on frozen zoysia — the crowns are brittle and can be crushed.
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