Fertilizer for Zoysia Grass: NPK Guide and Application Rates
Zoysia Grass is a warm-season lawn grass valued for its dense, carpet-like growth and good transition zone performance. It is a moderate feeder requiring only 2-3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet annually. Over-fertilizing zoysia leads to excessive thatch buildup, which is the primary maintenance challenge for this grass type.
Quick Reference
What NPK Ratio is Best for Zoysia Grass?
The recommended NPK ratio for zoysia grass is 15-0-15. The nitrogen-forward 15-0-15 ratio drives leaf and stem development, which zoysia grass need for photosynthesis and canopy growth.
Zoysia Grass NPK needs shift at each growth stage. Starter fertilizer for new sod or plugs establishing during the Seedling phase, then n/a for lawn use once flowering begins.
NPK by Growth Stage for Zoysia Grass
| Growth Stage | NPK Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling | 18N 24P 12K N 18% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 24% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 12% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Starter fertilizer for new sod or plugs establishing |
| Vegetative | 15N 0P 15K N 15% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 0% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 15% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Moderate nitrogen with potassium for dense carpet growth |
| Flowering | 15N 0P 15K N 15% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 0% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 15% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | N/A for lawn use |
| Fruiting | 5N 0P 20K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 0% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 20% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Fall winterizer heavy on potassium for cold tolerance |
When Should You Fertilize Zoysia Grass?
In zone 6, start fertilizing zoysia grass in May. In zone 10, begin as early as March. Apply every 8 weeks through the growing season.
Which Zones Can Grow Zoysia Grass?
Zoysia Grass grows in USDA zones 6 through 10, spanning a 5-zone range.
Fertilization Start by Zone
| Zone | Start Month |
|---|---|
| Zone 6 | May |
| Zone 7 | May |
| Zone 8 | April |
| Zone 9 | April |
| Zone 10 | March |
What Are the Best Fertilizer Products for Zoysia Grass?
Look for products with an NPK close to 15-0-15. Scotts Turf Builder Thick'R Lawn is the most popular choice among home gardeners for zoysia grass.
- Scotts Turf Builder Thick'R Lawn
- Milorganite
- Pennington UltraGreen
- Jonathan Green Zoysia Fertilizer
Prices vary by retailer and region. Check current pricing before purchasing.
Common Fertilizing Mistakes with Zoysia Grass
- Over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which creates severe thatch problems
- Fertilizing before the grass has fully greened up in spring
- Neglecting core aeration needed to manage thatch before fertilizing
- Using quick-release nitrogen that can burn this grass
- Not adjusting fertilizer rates for the lower nitrogen needs compared to bermuda
Tips for Fertilizing Zoysia Grass
- Apply 0.75-1 lb of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft every 6-8 weeks during active growth
- Total annual nitrogen should be 2-3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
- Avoid excessive nitrogen which causes severe thatch problems in zoysia
- Apply a fall winterizer with potassium for cold hardiness
- Zoysia is slow to establish; use starter fertilizer for new plantings
Organic Fertilizer Alternatives for Zoysia Grass
Sources
Source:Clemson HGIC - Zoysiagrass Maintenance CalendarLast updated: