Problems With Zorro Zoysia

Zoysia grasses are native to Asia, and several varieties are abundant today. The Zorro variety was researched and developed at Texas A&M University between 1996 and 2000 and, according to the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program, is the number one Zoysia variety available. Zorro has a fine texture, moderate drought and shade tolerance, and the ability to rebound quickly after experiencing damage. While most Zoysias are warm weather varieties, Zorro is winter hardy. Zorro is generally more hardy than other varieties; however, it is susceptible to certain ailments.

Zorro, like most Zoysia grasses, takes longer to establish than other grass varieties. Directly after planting is its most vulnerable time. The first two weeks after planting the seeds, or plugs, you must water daily in order for the rhizomes to establish themselves, allowing the grass to spread. If it is not properly watered, the young grass may die or be subject to weed or insect infestation.

Rhizoctonia solani, or brown patch, is a fungus without spores that causes brown circular patches throughout the turf. It can develop overnight in the right conditions. Affected areas appear sunken where the grass is decaying, and is susceptible to weed invasion. You can prevent brown patch from developing in your lawn by addressing this issue before it becomes a problem. Ensure that your lawn is well drained and do not overwater, especially in the fall and spring. Don't mow while the grass is still wet and mow as tall as possible. Cutting too close to the thatch encourages the fungus. Don't aerate or dethatch your lawn in the spring, and apply nitrogen fertilizers properly.

Leaf rust is a red fungus with spores that affects taller grass. It casts a yellowish-orange tint in affected grass. When walking on it, your shoes will kick up a light orange dust which coats the shoes. In well-established lawns, leaf rust is largely a cosmetic problem, but younger grass may incur damage and become weak from an infestation. Leaf rust is common in slow-growing grass, and Zorro Zoysia is particularly susceptible. Outbreaks occur in mild temperatures with long, dewy evenings. Other factors for outbreak include extreme heat stress, drought and low nitrogen content in the soil. Prevent a rust outbreak by sprinkling problem spots with a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer and by not watering in the early evenings.

Zorro Zoysia is prone to excessive thatch if not fed properly. Thatch is the layer of dead grass and undecomposed stems, and it can weaken the grass's resistance to disease and infestations. While Zoysia is more drought resistant than other grasses, water it once a week for best results. Consistent watering helps stabilize the grass's growing season and builds its resistance to overwatering. Too much thatch may also encourage weed growth due to its weakened state.