How to Plant Zoysia Grass Plugs

Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in hot and humid conditions, and it makes for a great turfgrass option for lawn owners who want a low-maintenance lawn with a soft, thick texture. One of the most effective ways to grow Zoysia grass is by planting Zoysia grass plugs. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to plant Zoysia grass plugs:

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Plant

The best time to plant Zoysia grass plugs is in late spring or early summer when the soil has warmed up, and the grass is actively growing. Depending on your location, this could be anywhere from April to August. You want to make sure that you plant the plugs when the ground temperature consistently stays above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Before planting your Zoysia grass plugs, you need to prepare the area where you want to plant them. Start by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris from the area. Then, use a garden rake to loosen the top layer of soil. This will give the Zoysia plugs a good environment to grow in.

Step 3: Measure Your Area

Measure the area where you want to plant the Zoysia plugs. This will help you determine how many grass plugs you need. Each Zoysia grass plug covers about one square foot of lawn, so you can use this to calculate how many plugs you need. Make sure to order a few extra plugs in case some do not take root.

Step 4: Plant the Zoysia Grass Plugs

Begin by digging a small hole where you want to plant the plug. The hole should be just deep enough to allow the plug to sit level with the surrounding soil. Place the Zoysia grass plug into the hole and press it down gently with your hands to make sure that it is secure. Repeat this process for all the plugs you need, making sure to space them about a foot apart.

Step 5: Water the Plugs

After planting your Zoysia grass plugs, you need to water them. Water the plugs deeply but gently, making sure not to wash them away. For the first few weeks, you will need to water the plugs daily to keep the soil moist. After that, you can reduce the frequency of watering to every few days.

Step 6: Fertilize the Plugs

Once the Zoysia grass plugs have been in the ground for a few weeks, you can start fertilizing them. Use a slow-release fertilizer that is designed for Zoysia grass. This will help your grass plugs establish a deep root system, which is essential for their long-term survival. Follow the fertilizer manufacturer's instructions for best results.

Step 7: Mow Your Zoysia Grass

After a few weeks of growth, you can start mowing your Zoysia grass. Make sure to set your mower blade high and only remove about one-third of the grass blade at a time. This will encourage healthy growth and help your Zoysia grass establish a strong root system.

Conclusion

Planting Zoysia grass plugs is an effective way to establish a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Zoysia grass plugs grow healthy and strong. Remember to choose the right time to plant, prepare the area, measure your space, plant the plugs, water, fertilize, and mow your Zoysia grass. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a beautiful Zoysia grass lawn in no time.