How to Get Rid of Zoysia Grass in Lawn

Zoysia grass is a popular choice for homeowners due to its heat and drought tolerance, but it’s not always a welcome guest in every yard. While zoysia is hardy and resilient, these same qualities can turn it into a troublesome invader if it starts spreading into areas of your lawn where it’s not wanted. Its thick matting, ability to spread quickly via runners, and resistance to many common lawn care practices make it difficult to control.

This guide will help you identify, remove, and prevent the invasion of zoysia grass in your lawn while offering practical tips for maintaining a balanced and healthy turf.

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Why Is Zoysia Grass a Problem?

Zoysia grass grows in dense clumps and spreads aggressively through stolons (above-ground runners) and rhizomes (underground runners). While it’s considered a low-maintenance grass by some, it can become invasive in lawns where finer grass types like bluegrass, fescue, or Bermuda dominate.

Common Problems with Zoysia Grass:

• Unattractive Appearance in Mixed Lawns:
  • Its coarse texture and different growth patterns make it stick out.
• Aggressive Spread:
  • Once established, zoysia grass is hard to eliminate and tends to invade other lawn sections.
• Dormancy Issues:
  • Turns brown and unsightly in colder seasons, contrasting starkly against greener grasses.
• Low Responsiveness to Standard Control Methods:
  • Tolerates drought, many herbicides, and neglect, making it a persistent issue.

For homeowners striving for a uniform lawn, zoysia’s clumpy and invasive nature can cause ongoing headaches.

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How to Identify Zoysia Grass

Proper identification is essential before jumping into removal. Zoysia has distinct characteristics that set it apart from other grass species.

Key Features of Zoysia Grass:

1. Texture:
   • Thick and wiry blades that feel coarse underfoot.
2. Growth Pattern:
   • Spreads in dense, lateral patches via stolons and rhizomes.
3. Color:
   • Bright green in summer but turns straw-colored during winter dormancy.
4. Resistance to Wear:
   • Extremely durable and tolerates heavy foot traffic.

Where Zoysia Typically Grows:

• Hot and humid regions or areas with mild winters.
• Lawns exposed to full sunlight but able to adapt to partial shade.

Accurately identifying zoysia grass is the first step to applying the correct eradication technique.

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How to Get Rid of Zoysia Grass in Your Lawn

Removing zoysia grass can be challenging, but combining mechanical, chemical, and cultural treatments effectively can help regain control of your lawn.

1. Remove Zoysia Grass Manually

Manual removal is one of the most effective ways to handle small areas of zoysia grass infestation. This method targets the root system, minimizing the chance of regrowth.

Steps for Manual Removal:

1. Water the Area:
   • Loosen the soil by watering the area thoroughly the day before.
2. Dig Up the Grass:
   • Use a shovel or garden fork to remove the zoysia grass, ensuring you get its deep-reaching roots.
3. Dispose of Runners:
   • Collect any stolons and rhizomes to prevent further spreading.
4. Rake the Spot:
   • Comb through the soil to eliminate any leftover fragments.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly with no chemicals involved.
• Effective for small patches.

Cons:

• Labor-intensive and time-consuming.
• May leave behind fragments that can regrow.

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2. Apply Herbicides

For larger invasions, herbicides offer a practical solution. However, zoysia grass is tough and may require repeated applications.

Best Herbicides for Zoysia Grass:

• Non-Selective Herbicides (e.g., Glyphosate):
  • Effective against all vegetation. Use only if you plan to replant grass in the treated area.
• Selective Herbicides:
  • Contain active ingredients like fenoxaprop or fluazifop, which target zoysia grass without harming many common turfgrasses.

Steps for Chemical Application:

1. Spray herbicide directly on the zoysia patches during active growth (spring to summer).
2. Avoid application on windy days to prevent drift.
3. Follow up with a second application if regrowth appears.

Pros:

• Targets zoysia efficiently, especially over large areas.
• Saves time compared to manual removal.

Cons:

• Non-selective herbicides can damage other plants.
• Needs careful, consistent application to fully eradicate.

Pro Tips:

• Combine herbicide treatment with reseeding or sodding for best results.
• Always wear protective gear and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.

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3. Solarization

Solarization is a chemical-free way to kill off zoysia grass and its resilient root system by using the power of the sun.

How to Solarize the Lawn:

1. Mow the infested area as low as possible.
2. Cover the area with a large sheet of clear plastic.
3. Weigh down the edges with soil, rocks, or bricks to seal in heat.
4. Leave the plastic in place for 4–6 weeks during the hottest part of the year.

Pros:

• Organic and environmentally friendly.
• Kills both the grass and dormant seeds.

Cons:

• Time-intensive, requiring patience.
• May damage the surrounding soil health if left too long.

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4. Reseed or Sod the Area

After removing zoysia manually, chemically, or with solarization, it’s essential to restore the area to prevent its comeback.

Reseeding Steps:

1. Prepare the area by loosening soil and adding compost.
2. Plant a grass variety compatible with your lawn (e.g., Bermuda or fescue).
3. Water consistently until the grass establishes itself.

Using Sod for Instant Results:

• Lay down sod for an instant aesthetic fix. Be sure to prep the ground beforehand and roll the sod firmly into place.

Pros:

• Prevents weeds or zoysia from recolonizing.
• Restores uniform lawn appearance.

Cons:

• Additional expense and effort.

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Preventing Zoysia Grass in the Future

Prevention is the most effective way to keep zoysia grass out of your yard. Here’s how to protect your lawn from unwanted re-infestations:

1. Regular Lawn Maintenance

• Mowing:
  • Keep your lawn mowed to the appropriate height for your turfgrass type to avoid shading gaps.
• Watering:
  • Irrigate deeply but infrequently to promote healthy root growth.
• Fertilizing:
  • Use a balanced fertilizer designed for your grass variety to suppress opportunistic weeds and invasive grasses.

2. Edge Control

• Install physical barriers like plastic or metal edging to prevent zoysia stolons or rhizomes from creeping into your lawn.

3. Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicides

• Treat your lawn with pre-emergent herbicides in the spring to restrict seeds from germinating during the active growing season.

4. Inspect Cracks and Borders

• Regularly check sidewalk cracks, driveways, and garden edges for zoysia grass growth and remove it promptly.

By committing to preventative care, you can keep zoysia grass in check and maintain the pristine look of your lawn.

Transforming your lawn into a zoysia-free, vibrant, and uniform space requires persistence and the right strategies. By combining removal methods and staying proactive with lawn care, you can successfully reclaim your yard and keep it looking perfect all year round!

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FAQs About Zoysia Grass Control