Zoysiagrass is a popular choice for Georgia homeowners who want a dense, attractive lawn with fewer mowing demands and strong heat tolerance. While Zoysia can be very durable, it also requires consistent, well-timed care to avoid common issues like thatch buildup, disease, and nutrient stress.
As part of the Georgia Lawn Care Calendar series, this guide breaks down Zoysiagrass care by season using proven turf science and Georgia growing conditions. The goal is simple: help homeowners understand what to do, when to do it, and why timing matters for a healthy lawn all year long. For additional reference, the UGA Extension Zoysiagrass Lawn Calendar provides detailed monthly recommendations.
Winter Dormancy | December – February
During winter, Zoysiagrass goes fully dormant as temperatures drop. The turf turns tan or straw-colored, which is normal and healthy. Growth stops above ground while energy is stored in the roots. Here are some winter care priorities:
- Mow only if necessary, maintaining at 1–2 inches and never remove more than 1/3 of the blade at one time
- Water only during extended dry periods
- Avoid nitrogen fertilization entirely
- Spot spray winter weeds like chickweed and wild onion
Spring Green-Up | March – April
Spring is a delicate time for Zoysiagrass. While temperatures warm, fertilizing too early can promote weeds and increase the risk of disease. Spring focus areas include:
- Apply spring pre-emergent to prevent weeds
- Dethatch and aerate after the danger of frost has passed and ONLY if needed
- Resume mowing as growth returns
- Delay fertilizer application until soil temperatures reach 65°F (and rising)
Peak Growing Season | May – August
Late spring through summer is Zoysiagrass's prime growing period. This is when it thickens, spreads, and develops its signature dense texture. Summer care includes:
- Mowing regularly at ½–2 inches, removing no more than one-third of the blade at a time
- Watering 1 inch per week, best applied from 9pm until 10am
- Fertilizing about every 6 weeks
- Aerating only if needed, during active growth and when soil is moist
- Monitoring for pests and disease, especially during hot, humid periods
Zoysia likes a regular fertilizing schedule and does well with the right amount of nitrogen, but it can look terrible without it.
Fall Preparation | September – November
As temperatures cool, Zoysiagrass growth slows—making fall the perfect time to get your lawn ready for winter and set it up for a strong spring. Key steps include:
- Adjust mowing height to 2 inches to prepare for minimal or no mowing during winter
- Water as needed, but reduce irrigation as growth slows
- Stop fertilizing after September
- Monitor and spot-treat weeds
- Skip overseeding with ryegrass
- Test soil and apply lime if needed
Practices That Require Precise Timing
Zoysiagrass is especially sensitive to mistimed treatments. Applying the wrong service at the wrong time can increase disease, thatch, or stress.
• Aeration & dethatching: Only during active growth
• Fertilization: Never during dormancy and stop after September
• Watering: Avoid afternoon watering to reduce fungus risk
• Grassy weed post-emergent: Do not apply to drought-stressed turf
Why Seasonal Lawn Care Works
