Zoysia grass grows best during the warm months of spring, summer and early fall. It grows vigorously during this time and become brown and dormant in winter. Zoysia is adapted to the entire state and are some of the most cold-tolerant of the warm-season grasses.
This grass forms an excellent turf when properly established and managed. For the best appearance, Zoysia requires cutting with a reel mower, although a rotary mower with sharp blades is satisfactory. It also requires occasional watering and periodic thinning or dethatching. Once this grass is established, thatch can build up, especially when heavily fertilized. Remove thatch every two to three years. The Zoysia forms a dense, attractive turf in full sun and partial shade, but often thin out in dense shade. Zoysia grows very slowly compared to other grasses and usually are established by sprigging or plugging, although there are seeded types. Sprigs or plugs, 2 inches in diameter planted on 6-inch centers, will cover completely in two growing seasons if watered and fertilized properly. However, it may require several years to cover if not properly maintained. As it is a slow grower, it requires less frequent mowing than some other grasses. It will, however, recover slowly from damage due to its slow growth habit. Empire' Zoysia is a fine-textured hybrid that is possibly the most attractive Zoysia. It is well-suited for top-quality lawns where a good maintenance program is provided. Zoysia has less winter hardiness but more shade tolerant. It has a dark green color, a very fine leaf texture, good shade tolerance, high shoot density and a low growth habit. Empire' Zoysia will develop excess thatch rather quickly if overfertilized and is prone to winter injury northward from the Columbia area.