Bermuda Grass Vs Zoysia Grass: A Comparison Of Two Popular Turfs
Are you torn between Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass for your lawn? You’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle with choosing the right type of grass for their yard.
Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass are two popular types of turf. They have different blade shapes, growth habits, and geographic distributions. This article will compare Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass, looking at their pros and cons.
By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which grass is right for your lawn.
Key Takeaways
- Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass differ in blade shape, growth habits, and geographic distribution. Bermuda has thin 1.5-1.7 mm blades and spreads rapidly via stolons and rhizomes. Zoysia has wider 2-7 mm blades and spreads slowly via rhizomes, forming a dense carpet-like turf.
- Zoysia grass is more expensive and requires more mowing, fertilizing, and watering than Bermuda grass. However, Zoysia feels soft underfoot, has a slower growth rate, and tolerates cold better. Bermuda grass is fast-growing, tolerates salt well, but can be invasive and difficult to remove.
- Proper lawn care like mowing to 1-2 inches, watering 1 inch/week, and fertilizing based on soil tests is crucial for both grasses. Bermuda and Zoysia require sharp mower blades to avoid tearing. Over-fertilizing can cause excess growth and disease.
- Climate, soil type, traffic, weed resistance, shade, cost, and aesthetics are key factors when choosing between Bermuda and Zoysia. Bermuda thrives in hot regions and establishes quickly, while Zoysia tolerates cooler temps and shade better, but takes longer to establish. Personal preferences also play a role in selection.
Differences Between Bermuda Grass and Zoysia Grass
Bermuda grass and zoysia grass differ in their blade shape and size. Bermuda grass has fine, thin blades while zoysia grass has thicker, stiffer blades that grow more upright.
The two grasses also have different growth habits and density. Bermuda grass spreads quickly by above-ground stolons and below-ground rhizomes, forming a dense turf, while zoysia grass spreads more slowly by rhizomes and forms a thicker, carpet-like lawn.
Blade shape and size
Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass differ in blade shape and size. Bermuda grass blades are about 1.5 to 1.7 mm wide. They are thin, pointy, and have a spear-like shape. In contrast, Zoysia grass generally has wider leaf blades that range from 2 to 7 mm.
Zoysia Matrella varieties have the narrowest blades at just 2 mm wide, while other Zoysias can have blades up to 7 mm across.
Zoysia grass feels nice on bare feet due to its smaller 1/10-inch blades. The narrow blades pack densely to form a thick, lush lawn that can handle heavy foot traffic. Although Bermuda grass blades are even thinner, they grow quickly to form a thick carpet of grass that also withstands frequent use.
Growth habits and density
Bermuda grass and zoysia grass differ in their growth patterns and turf density. Bermuda grass spreads rapidly through both above-ground runners and underground rhizomes, forming a thick carpet of grass.
It recovers quickly from damage and fills in bare spots fast. In contrast, zoysia grass spreads more slowly through rhizomes and stolons. It creates a dense, compact turf over time.
Zoysia grass typically requires less mowing than Bermuda due to its slower growth rate. Bermuda grass needs frequent mowing to maintain a manicured appearance and prevent it from becoming invasive.
Geographic distribution
Bermuda grass grows well in many parts of the United States, especially the South and Southwest. It thrives in warm regions with mild winters. In contrast, zoysia grass has a more limited range, preferring areas with hot summers and cool winters in the transition zone between North and South.
Zoysia grass does not tolerate extreme cold or extended periods of drought as well as Bermuda. These differences in hardiness and heat tolerance determine where each type of grass will perform best.
Next, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of zoysia grass for homeowners considering their lawn options.
Pros and Cons of Zoysia Grass
Zoysia grass offers a beautiful, dense turf that feels soft underfoot, making it a popular choice for homeowners who enjoy spending time on their lawns. However, zoysia grass grows more slowly than bermuda grass and requires more frequent mowing, fertilizing, and watering to maintain its lush appearance.
Pros: Slow growing and feels nice on feet
A major benefit of zoysiagrass is its slow growth rate. This turf species requires less mowing and maintenance compared to other grass types like bermudagrass. Zoysiagrass forms a dense, compact sod that feels soft and cushiony underfoot, making it a pleasure to walk on barefoot.
The fine leaf texture of zoysia also contributes to its luxurious feel. The grass blades are narrower than those of bermuda, creating a velvety, carpet-like surface. This characteristic makes zoysiagrass a popular choice for home lawns, especially in yards where children and pets play frequently.
[Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level: 7.4]
Cons: Requires more care and is more expensive
Zoysiagrass demands more attention than Bermudagrass to thrive. You must mow it, water it, and fertilize it more often. Pests like armyworms and diseases like large patch can damage it.
Zoysia costs more because it only comes as sod or plugs, not seeds. Installing and maintaining a zoysia lawn requires a bigger budget than Bermuda. These drawbacks make zoysia a high-maintenance choice for many homeowners.
The next section will cover the pros and cons of Bermuda grass as an alternative turfgrass option.
Pros and Cons of Bermuda Grass
Bermuda grass grows quickly. This makes it a great choice for homeowners who want a lush, green lawn fast. It also tolerates salt better than many other types of grass, so it’s a good option for coastal areas or where road salt is used in winter.
But Bermuda grass can be hard to control. It spreads rapidly through above-ground stems called stolons and underground stems called rhizomes. This aggressive growth habit means it can invade flower beds and other areas where you don’t want it.
Pros: Fast growing and has higher salt tolerance
Bermuda grass grows quickly, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want a lush lawn fast. It spreads rapidly through stolons and rhizomes, forming a thick, dense turf that can handle heavy foot traffic.
Bermuda also thrives in areas with high salt content in the soil or air, such as coastal regions, thanks to its salt tolerance.
This turfgrass requires less water than many other grass types once established. Its deep root system allows it to access moisture deep in the earth, even during periods of drought.
Cons: Can be difficult to get rid of
Although Bermuda grass grows quickly and tolerates salt well, it has a significant drawback. Once established, Bermuda grass can be very challenging to remove from your lawn. Its aggressive growth habit allows it to spread rapidly through stolons and rhizomes, forming a dense mat that chokes out other plants.
Even small pieces of stolons or rhizomes left behind can sprout into new grass, making eradication a frustrating and time-consuming process. Homeowners may need to use a combination of methods, such as repeated herbicide applications, solarization with plastic sheeting, or manual removal, to fully eliminate Bermuda grass from their yard.
This tenacious turf can invade flower beds, vegetable gardens, and neighboring lawns, causing headaches for homeowners who desire a change in their landscaping.
Importance of Proper Lawn Care and Maintenance
Proper lawn care and maintenance are crucial for both Bermuda and Zoysia grasses. Mowing height and frequency play a vital role in maintaining a healthy lawn. For Bermuda grass, mow it to a height of 1 to 2 inches every 5 to 7 days during the growing season.
Zoysia grass should be mowed to a height of 1 to 2 inches every 7 to 10 days. Use sharp mower blades to avoid tearing the grass blades, which can lead to brown tips and make the lawn more susceptible to diseases like fusarium patch or powdery mildew.
Proper watering and fertilization are also essential for a lush, green lawn. Both Bermuda and Zoysia grasses require about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance. Fertilize your lawn based on soil test results and the specific needs of your grass type. Bermuda grass typically requires more nitrogen than Zoysia grass.
Apply fertilizer evenly using a spreader, and water it in thoroughly to avoid burning the grass. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases like sod webworms or grey leaf spots.
Conclusion: Which Grass is Better?
The best grass for your lawn depends on various factors like your location, climate, and personal preferences. Both Bermuda and Zoysia have their own strengths and weaknesses. Consider things like blade shape, growth habits, and geographic distribution when making your choice.
Proper lawn care and maintenance are key no matter which type of grass you choose. Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of each type of turf so you can pick the perfect one for your yard.
Factors to consider when choosing between Bermuda and Zoysia
Choosing between Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass requires careful consideration of several factors. Homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of each turf type to make an informed decision.
Factors to consider when selecting between Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass:
- Climate: Bermuda grass thrives in hot, sunny regions, while Zoysia grass tolerates cooler temperatures and partial shade. Consider your local climate conditions when making a choice.
- Soil type: Both grasses prefer well-drained soils, but Bermuda grass can tolerate a wider range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils. Zoysia grass prefers slightly acidic soils with good drainage.
- Maintenance requirements: Bermuda grass requires more frequent mowing and fertilization compared to Zoysia grass. Zoysia grass, on the other hand, needs less watering and can maintain its green color with less maintenance.
- Traffic tolerance: Bermuda grass recovers quickly from foot traffic and damage, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like athletic fields or playgrounds. Zoysia grass, while sturdy, may take longer to recover from heavy use.
- Weed resistance: Zoysia grass forms a dense mat that effectively suppresses weed growth. Bermuda grass, although fast-growing, may be more susceptible to weed invasions, especially in thin or damaged areas.
- Shade tolerance: Zoysia grass can tolerate partial shade better than Bermuda grass. If your lawn has shaded areas, Zoysia grass may be the better choice.
- Establishment time: Bermuda grass establishes quickly from seed or sod, allowing for a faster lawn establishment. Zoysia grass, on the other hand, may take longer to fully establish and reach its optimal density.
- Cost: Zoysia grass sod or plugs may be more expensive than Bermuda grass due to its slower growth rate and lower availability. Consider your budget when making a decision.
- Aesthetics: Bermuda grass has a fine-textured appearance with a lighter green color, while Zoysia grass has a darker green color and a slightly coarser texture. Choose the grass that best fits your desired lawn appearance.
Personal preferences and climate factors to consider.
Beyond these factors, your personal tastes and local weather play key roles in selecting the right turf. If you prefer a lush, soft lawn that feels great under bare feet, zoysia may be the way to go.
Its fine blades create a carpet-like surface. But if you want a tough, fast-growing grass that bounces back quickly from foot traffic, bermuda is a solid choice. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and has good salt tolerance, making it ideal for areas near sidewalks or driveways where de-icing products are used.
Zoysia performs well in both warm and cool climates, while bermuda excels in scorching, arid regions. By weighing your aesthetic preferences and assessing your area’s temperature ranges and rainfall patterns, you can determine which grass type will create the optimal lawn for your home.
FAQs
1. Which grass is more drought-tolerant – Bermuda or Zoysia?
Both Bermuda and Zoysia grasses are drought-resistant and thrive well in warmer climates. However, Bermuda grass has a slight edge in terms of drought-tolerance compared to Zoysia.
2. Can I plant Bermuda or Zoysia grass from seed?
While you can plant Bermuda grass from seed, Zoysia is typically planted using sod or plugs from a sod farm. This is because Zoysia seed germination rates are lower and take longer to establish a lawn.
3. How often should I mow my Bermuda or Zoysia lawn?
Both grasses require regular mowings to maintain a neat appearance. Bermuda grass needs more frequent mowing, about 1-2 times per week, while Zoysia can be mowed every 1-2 weeks.
4. Are Bermuda and Zoysia grasses susceptible to weeds and diseases?
Yes, both grasses can be prone to weeds, especially if the lawn is not properly maintained. Zoysia is more resistant to common diseases like take-all and snow mold compared to Bermuda. Regular lawn treatment can help prevent these issues.
5. Can Bermuda or Zoysia grass be used on golf courses or HOAs?
Yes, both Bermuda and Zoysia are popular choices for golf courses and HOAs in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and the surrounding Northwest Arkansas region. However, it’s important to note that Bermuda grass can be an invasive species if not properly managed, so it’s crucial to maintain proper soil pH and use appropriate grass seed or sod for the area.