Manila grass
Zoysia matrella · Poaceae
📷 Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant manila grass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Zoysia matrella
- Family
- Poaceae
- Type
- Ornamental grass
- Adult height
- 10 to 15 cm
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Warm and temperate zones (limited frost)
- Origin
- Southeast Asia, Japan
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Zoysia is a warm-climate grass that goes dormant in winter in our regions: it needs zero maintenance from October onwards, just accept it'll turn brown. Water regularly in summer (every 2-3 days during heat waves).
The common mistake
Gardeners often keep mowing and watering a dormant lawn, which causes rot and winter damage: leave it completely alone from November through April.
The pro's trick
Sow or lay sod in late April-May when soil reaches a stable 15°C: the growth kick-off is explosive and you'll gain 2-3 weeks compared to sowing too early.
Seasonal watch
In summer, prolonged drought beyond 3-4 days without water causes irreversible burn on the blades.
Care
Light exposure
Zoysia develops optimally in full sun, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. It tolerates light partial shade, but its habit will be less dense. Avoid deep shade areas that slow down its growth.
Watering
Keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season (spring-summer). Once established, zoysia resists drought well. In winter, reduce watering according to climatic conditions. Avoid chronic waterlogging, which promotes fungal diseases.
Soil
Zoysia appreciates well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral. It adapts to sandy or loamy soils and tolerates even poor soils. A light application of organic matter at planting promotes establishment.
Mowing and cutting
Mow regularly to a height of 1 to 3 cm to maintain dense, attractive turf. Frequent mowing (every one to two weeks depending on season) encourages tillering. Remove clippings if they form persistent thatch.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer (NPK) in spring and early summer to support growth. One or two applications per year are generally sufficient. Prefer regular moderate applications over large doses.
Diseases and pests
Zoysia is generally robust. In overly humid and poorly ventilated conditions, it can suffer from fungal diseases (damping off, rust). Ensure good air circulation and avoid excess moisture. Pests are rare in temperate regions.
Did you know?
Zoysia has been the preferred grass for golf courses and sports fields in Asia for decades, particularly in Japan and Korea. Its extraordinary density, tolerance to foot traffic, and regenerative capacity make it an almost indestructible grass, capable of withstanding intense wear while remaining attractive.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.