The Best Zoysia for Shade

Best For Shade

• Emerald zoysia is the most shade-tolerant of the zoysia grasses. Its growth will slow, however, when planted in the shade.

History

• Native to Asia, zoysia was brought to America in the early 1900s. The emerald hybrid was introduced in the mid 1950s as a joint development venture between the United States Department of Agriculture and the Georgia Agricultural Experiment Station.

Considerations

• Emerald zoysia requires careful fertilization as too much nitrogen causes a large thatch buildup. Consult with your county cooperative extension service to determine when to fertilize your emerald zoysia and how much fertilizer to apply.