Zoysia Grass Care in Middle Georgia
Zoysia grass is dense, shade-tolerant, and naturally resistant to weeds. With the right seasonal care, it produces one of the thickest, most uniform lawns in Georgia.
Zoysia basics
What Zoysia Grass Needs to Thrive in Georgia
Zoysia is a premium warm-season grass that rewards patience. It grows slower than bermuda, but its dense growth habit crowds out weeds naturally once established. Zoysia handles partial shade better than bermuda, stays green longer into fall, and produces a thick, carpet-like lawn.
The tradeoff: it's slower to establish, slower to recover from damage, and needs proper thatch management to stay healthy.
Zoysia Quick Facts
Mow at 1-2 inches
Shade tolerant
Dense growth crowds weeds
Slow to establish
Dormant in winter
Seasonal schedule
Zoysia Grass Care by Season
Spring
March - May
- Zoysia greens up later than bermuda — be patient
- Light fertilization as active growth begins
- First mow when grass reaches 2 inches
- Pre-emergent before crabgrass and summer annual weeds germinate
Summer
June - August
- Moderate growth — less mowing than bermuda
- Fertilize on schedule but don’t overdo it
- Watch for large patch and billbug activity
- Water 1 inch per week if rain doesn’t provide it
Fall
September - November
- Zoysia stays green longer than bermuda into fall
- Last fertilization before dormancy
- Pre-emergent for winter annual weeds
- Good time for core aeration if soil is compacted
Winter
December - February
- Goes dormant later than bermuda but still turns brown
- Minimal care needed — avoid heavy traffic
- No fertilization during dormancy
- Spot treat winter weeds if they appear
Common issues
Problems That Affect Zoysia in Georgia
Large Patch
The most common disease on zoysia in Georgia. Circular brown patches appear in spring and fall when soil temps are between 60-75°F. Preventive fungicide is the best defense.
Thatch Buildup
Zoysia’s dense growth produces thatch faster than most grasses. Excessive thatch blocks water and nutrients. Core aeration and proper mowing height keep it in check.
Slow Recovery
Zoysia fills in damaged areas slowly compared to bermuda. Prevention matters more — treating disease and insect problems early prevents long recovery periods.
Dollar Spot
Small bleached patches that merge into larger damaged areas. Common when nitrogen is low and humidity is high. Proper fertilization helps prevent outbreaks.
Expert service
How Attaboy Manages Zoysia Lawns
Zoysia rewards consistent, well-timed care. We adjust our treatment schedule and product rates for zoysia's slower growth and specific nutrient needs — keeping your lawn dense and weed-free year-round.
Guides
Zoysia Grass Treatment Guides
Get started
Help Your Zoysia Reach Its Full Potential
Zoysia grass produces one of the best-looking lawns in Georgia when it gets the right care. Get a professional treatment plan started within 24 hours.
