Zoysia grass can turn brown for several reasons, and it’s important to understand the causes in order to properly address the issue. One common reason for browning is lack of water. Zoysia grass requires regular watering to stay green and healthy. If your grass is not receiving enough water, either due to infrequent irrigation or inadequate rainfall, it can start to turn brown and dry out.
Another factor that can contribute to browning is improper maintenance, specifically mowing at the wrong height. Zoysia grass should be mowed to a height of around 1.5 to 2.5 inches. If you cut it too short, known as scalping, it can expose the bottom of the grass blades to excessive sunlight and heat, leading to browning and damage. It’s important to adjust your mower height accordingly and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing.
Insufficient nutrient levels can also cause zoysia grass to turn brown. Nitrogen and iron are two key nutrients that zoysia grass needs to thrive. If your soil is lacking in these nutrients, your grass may start to show signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing and browning. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer formulated for zoysia grass can help prevent nutrient deficiencies and keep your grass healthy and green.
Another possible cause of browning in zoysia grass is disease or pest infestation. Common diseases that can affect zoysia grass include brown patch and dollar spot. These diseases can cause patches of brown or dead grass to appear. Treating and preventing these diseases typically involves proper lawn care practices such as adequate watering, mowing, and fertilization, as well as using fungicides if necessary.
Pests like grubs and chinch bugs can also cause damage to zoysia grass, leading to browning. These pests feed on the grass roots or stems, causing the grass to weaken and turn brown. Insecticides targeted at the specific pests can help control and prevent infestations.
Lastly, environmental factors such as excessive heat or cold can impact the health of zoysia grass. Extreme temperatures can stress the grass and cause it to turn brown. Providing proper irrigation and ensuring good soil health can help the grass better withstand temperature extremes.
Zoysia grass can turn brown due to various reasons including lack of water, improper mowing, nutrient deficiencies, diseases, pests, and environmental factors. By addressing these issues and implementing proper lawn care practices, you can help prevent or resolve browning in zoysia grass and maintain a lush, green lawn.
