Tips to Choose the Best Fertilizer for Zoysia Grass

A lush green lawn lends tremendous appeal and value to any property.  Zoysia grass is an ideal choice if the lawn  has to resist  high footfall, temperature, and humidity and  survive  without much water or maintenance.  Native to Southeast Asia, this grass thrives in moderate shade, tolerates drought, and has a soft, thick texture. Besides planting it during mildly warm weather, applying the best Zoysia grass fertilizers is essential for healthy growth and disease prevention.

Tips to Choose the Best Fertilizer for Zoysia Grass

Types of Zoysia grass fertilizers
For a beautifully green lawn that is dense, nutritionally enriched, and resistant to weeds and pests, it is best to use fertilizers for Zoysia grass. Fertilizing should also occur when the grass grows actively, anytime between late spring and early summer. Based on form, the fertilizers can be of the following types:

Granular
These are spread across the lawn with  the help of  a mechanical spreader or by hand.  Watering right after activates the granules and helps release various nutrients to feed the grass gradually and consistently.
Liquid
This type of fertilizer is readily absorbed by Zoysia grass and is easy to apply. However, care needs to be taken to avoid excessive fertilization, which can consequently leach nutrients and pollute surrounding water bodies.
Water-soluble
Before application, these fertilizers are dissolved in water, and a hose-end sprayer is used to apply them to the grass and its roots. With this type of fertilizer, nutrients tend to leach fast; hence, repeated applications might be necessary.

Zoysia grass fertilizers can also be categorized in the following manner:

Organic
These eco-friendly fertilizers enhance the soil quality in the long run and gradually release nutrients.
Synthetic
Synthetic fertilizers, capable of releasing nutrients quickly, are apt for the fast growth of Zoysia grass and promote a rich green hue. High-quality options come with vital micronutrients and have the right balance of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus.
Slow-release
As the name suggests, these fertilizers add nutrients to the soil over an extended period and minimize leaching chances. Hence, the grass receives sustained nourishment and less fertilizer wastage.

How to pick the best fertilizer for Zoysia grass?
With many brands and types of fertilizers available in the market today, picking the right option can seem daunting. In addition to the following tips, reading Zoysia grass fertilizer reviews online is a smart way to gauge the quality and effectiveness of a particular product. 

Note the ratio of  nutrients
Ideally, the fertilizer should have a balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) ratio that supports the proper growth of Zoysia grass and strengthens its roots. Usually, a 10-10-10 or 16-4-8 ratio does the trick.
Check for the presence of  micronutrients
Manganese, iron, and zinc are some of the key micronutrients that should be present in the fertilizer chosen for Zoysia grass. These promote healthy blades and a vibrant green color and ensure fast proliferation.
Quality of soil
Assessing the soil’s nutritional needs is of paramount importance since no two soils are the same. The ideal fertilizer should easily address any existing deficiencies.
Season-based needs
The grass’s nutrient requirements often vary based on the season. Hence, what works in spring or summer might not be effective during winter or fall.
Resistance to pest and weed
Fertilizers incorporated with pest- and weed-control properties usually eliminate the need for separate treatments.

Factors affecting the price of fertilizers for Zoysia grass

Quality
The better the quality or nutritional composition of a fertilizer, the higher its price will be. Organic products might also be priced higher.
Ease of application
The price tends to be higher for fertilizers that are easy to apply, like the liquid or water-soluble ones.
Location
Zoysia grass fertilizer prices might vary across states and cities.
Size of the lawn
The bigger the lawn, the greater the requirement for fertilizers  will be. Hence,  the total cost  will be higher .
Season
Since Zoysia grass grows most actively from late spring to early summer, the fertilizer price might be higher then. However, fertilizers for Zoysia grass for sale during off-seasons might be more pocket-friendly.

Tips to make the most out of Zoysia grass fertilizers
It is not enough to purchase the best fertilizer for Zoysia grass and expect the desired results without any strategy. One must practice certain tried and tested tips for effective results.

Application timing
The fertilizers should be applied when spring is about to end, or summer is set to begin.
Technique
The fertilizers should be evenly applied across the lawn, and a spreader should be used for big areas.
Watering
The lawn should be watered thoroughly after fertilizers are applied so that the nutrients can reach the roots. Watering will also depend on the region and weather.
Soil pH
A pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 is suitable for Zoysia grass. If the soil is too alkaline or acidic, the fertilizer must be chosen and applied accordingly.
Soil additives
Manure, compost, gypsum, and peat moss are common additives that can enhance soil quality besides fertilizers, improving grass health and growth. Lime can reduce acidity, while sulfur can increase the same.
Aeration
Aerating the lawn  periodically  will allow nutrients to reach the grassroots easily.

Conclusion
Though applying the best possible Zoysia grass fertilizers can boost the growth and health of a lawn, excessive fertilizing can burn the grass.  Hence,  it is important to follow  the specific directions and rules mentioned in the pack.  Regular mowing and overseeding can also aid in maintaining an aesthetic-looking lawn that is dense and lush.

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