Best Zoysia Grass For Shade (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you’re looking for a grass that can survive in shady areas, zoysia grass is an excellent choice. This type of grass is known for its ability to thrive in hot and humid conditions, making it perfect for areas that don't receive a lot of sunlight. But with so many varieties of zoysia grass available, it can be challenging to find the best one for your needs.

Before buying zoysia grass, there are several factors to consider to ensure you’re choosing the right type. First, take note of the amount of sunlight and shade the area receives. While zoysia grass can grow in shade, some varieties will need more sunlight than others. The climate also plays a significant role, as some zoysia grass types can handle colder temperatures better than others.

You might be asking yourself, how do I know which zoysia grass type is best for my needs? What are the differences between each variety? How do I care for zoysia grass after planting it? These are just a few questions you might be thinking about. In this article, we’ll cover all the essential factors you need to know to make an informed decision when choosing the best zoysia grass for shade. We’ll also provide you with some helpful tips for caring for your new lawn.

10 Best Zoysia Grass For Shade

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for drought-prone areas and low-maintenance lawns, producing thick and dense grass with minimal upkeep.
2
Ideal for growing athletic field grass in areas with both sun and partial shade.
3
Ideal for quickly establishing a dense Zoysia grass lawn with mature roots and individually grown plugs.
4
Ideal for patching and repairing lawns with sun and shade exposure, covering up to 85 square feet.
5
Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, drought and shade resistant ground cover with premium perennial turf grass seeds.
6
Ideal for creating a beautiful, drought-resistant lawn in areas with shade and salt exposure.
7
This product is ideal for growing a drought, salt and shade tolerant turf grass with extra-large 3" x 3" plugs.
8
Ideal for growing grass in areas with limited sunlight or shade.
9
Ideal for those looking for drought, salt and shade tolerant turf grass plugs to grow in their yard.
10
The product is ideal for beginners who want to grow Zoysia grass in their lawn.
Ideal for drought-prone areas and low-maintenance lawns, producing thick and dense grass with minimal upkeep.
Ideal for growing athletic field grass in areas with both sun and partial shade.
Ideal for quickly establishing a dense Zoysia grass lawn with mature roots and individually grown plugs.
Ideal for patching and repairing lawns with sun and shade exposure, covering up to 85 square feet.
Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, drought and shade resistant ground cover with premium perennial turf grass seeds.
Ideal for creating a beautiful, drought-resistant lawn in areas with shade and salt exposure.
This product is ideal for growing a drought, salt and shade tolerant turf grass with extra-large 3" x 3" plugs.
Ideal for growing grass in areas with limited sunlight or shade.
Ideal for those looking for drought, salt and shade tolerant turf grass plugs to grow in their yard.
The product is ideal for beginners who want to grow Zoysia grass in their lawn.

1. Zoysia Plugs – 200 Large Grass Plugs – Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Looking for a low maintenance lawn that offers both beauty and functionality? Look no further than Zoysia! This sun-loving, drought-resistant grass is perfect for those who want a stunning lawn without the hassle of constant watering and mowing. With Zoysia, you can enjoy the greenest lawn on the block even during the hottest summer days, as it requires only six hours of sunlight each day.

Not only is Zoysia low maintenance, it also provides a thick, carpet-like feel that is perfect for walking barefoot. Plus, Zoysia is great at crowding out weeds, so you can enjoy a picture-perfect lawn without having to worry about unsightly weeds spoiling your view.

When you order Zoysia, you'll receive grass plugs that are grown and shipped directly from our farm to your door. While Zoysia does go dormant during colder months, it will green up when temperatures reach 70 degrees. For best results, we recommend planting Zoysia in the spring or summer, and spacing the plugs 12 inches apart for a coverage of 200 square feet.

To ensure your Zoysia thrives, be sure to follow our care guide which is included with your order. During the first 14 days after planting, water your Zoysia daily for one hour per day. With its low maintenance requirements and stunning results, Zoysia is the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a beautiful, functional lawn.

2. Sun & Shade Athletic Field Grass Seed

Looking for a lawn seed mixture that grows and thrives in areas with both sunlight and partial shade? Look no further than this high-quality lawn seed mixture that is sure to create a thick, green lawn that lasts.

This seed mixture is formulated with wear-tolerant varieties that are designed to create a tough turf that can handle high traffic areas with ease. Plus, with a 99.9% weed-free formula, you can be sure that your lawn will look its best all year round.

Perfect for athletic fields, this grass seed grows well in both sunlight and partial shade. Whether you're working on an athletic field or simply looking to improve your backyard, this seed can be used in a variety of circumstances.

For best results, it is recommended to plant this seed mixture during the early spring or fall when daily temperatures are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With low watering requirements, you can easily grow a lush, green lawn without having to spend hours maintaining it.

With a germination period of just 7-12 days, you'll be able to enjoy your new lawn in no time. And, with new lawn coverage of 10 lbs/1000 sq ft and overseeding coverage of 5 lbs/1000 sq ft, you can be sure that you're getting the most out of every bag.

3. Zoysia Plugs – 100 Full Zoysia Grass Plugs | Mature Roots | Individually Grown

The Zoysia Plugs available for purchase will be shipped between December and April in a dormant state, and upon arrival, will be a beautiful golden brown color. Due to regulations by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, there will be a slightly longer lead time to allow for inspection and certification of the product before shipping.

To ensure the best results for the Zoysia Plugs, it is important to water them daily for the first 14 days after planting. This will help establish the plugs and promote healthy growth. Following the initial 14 days, it is recommended to water the plugs for one hour per day for an additional two weeks.

By following these simple steps, customers can expect their Zoysia Plugs to thrive and provide a beautiful addition to their outdoor space. Please note that this product is grown and shipped within the United States and does not make use of any artificial or synthetic materials.

4. Scotts Ez Seed Patch & Repair Sun And Shade: Seeds Up To 85 Sq. Ft., 3.75 Pounds

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is a game-changing grass seeding product that aims to restore damaged lawns and fill-in bare spots. This all-in-one solution contains a potent combination of high-performance grass seed, expanding mulch that surrounds the seed, controlled-release fertilizer, tackifier to prevent seed from washing away, and protectant to safeguard seedlings.

Scotts EZ Seed Sun and Shade grass seed is specifically designed to thrive in challenging conditions such as full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, and sloping terrain. Whether you're dealing with scorching sunlight or the gloomiest of shadows, this product can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant lawn.

For optimal results, it is recommended to plant the seed in the spring or fall when the daily average soil temperatures are between 55°F and 70°F or the air temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F. This ensures that the seed has ample time to settle and develop into a strong and robust lawn.

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade covers an area of up to 85 sq. ft., making it an ideal solution for small to medium-sized lawns. With just three easy steps, you can achieve a lush and beautiful lawn that will be the envy of your neighbors.

5. Emerald Zoysia Seeds – Premium Perennial Ground Cover

Looking for a premium and low-maintenance grass seed option? Look no further than this package of Zoysia grass seeds, which includes approximately 1/8 lb of high-quality seeds.

What sets Zoysia grass apart is its fine, soft texture and impressive drought and shade resistance. This grass can even be left unmown, as it only grows to a height of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm). Plus, it's suitable for use as both ground cover and lawn cover, and is hardy in USDA Zones 5-10.

To sow Zoysia grass, the best time to plant is between mid to late spring and early summer. Alternatively, it can be planted in the fall before the start of frost. Simply sow the seeds evenly in soil and keep the soil moist (but not soggy) for germination in 14-21 days.

Once established, Zoysia grass is a beautiful and lush warm-season turf grass that requires minimal maintenance. It's able to tolerate drought and foot traffic without needing large amounts of fertilizer, making it a great choice for families who want to enjoy their leisure time on a beautiful lawn cover.

6. Zoysia Sod Plugs – Large 3" X 3" Plugs – 18 Count Tray – Drought, Salt & Shade Tolerant Turf Grass

Experience the lush beauty and superior performance of Zoysia grass in your yard with Florida Foliage's exclusive packaging and shipping. This grass is perfect for those seeking a thick, deep green blanket that can handle a variety of activities without showing extensive wear and tear.

Zoysia grass performs best with at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight, and boasts year-round color in frost-free climates with seasonal dormancy. It absorbs impact, tolerates wear and resists weeds, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. Additionally, it thrives in hot weather conditions, ensuring your lawn remains vibrant even in the harshest temperatures.

Each sod plug is intended to be planted spaced 15 inches apart, and over time will grow together to create a beautiful, minimal maintenance lawn. When planted and cared for properly, the coverage of these grass plugs is 32 square feet.

What's more, these Zoysia plugs are already producing runners, making it even easier for you to enjoy a beautiful lawn without extensive maintenance. If you order in fall or winter, your plugs will arrive dormant and won't be in full color until warmer weather returns.

7. 9 Plugs Zoysia Sod Plugs | Extra Large 3" X 3" Plugs | Drought, Salt & Shade Tolerant Turf Grass

Introducing the Zoysia Sod Plugs, a high-quality turf grass that is perfect for those who want a lawn that is both beautiful and easy to maintain. These sod plugs are extra large, measuring 3 inches by 3 inches, providing more coverage with less effort.

One of the best features of the Zoysia Sod Plugs is its exceptional drought tolerance. This grass can withstand long periods of hot, dry weather, making it an excellent choice for those living in areas with water restrictions. Additionally, it is also highly resistant to salt damage, making it a perfect choice for those who live near the ocean or have salty soil.

Another great feature of this turf grass is its ability to thrive in shady areas. Many types of grass struggle to grow in areas with limited sunlight, but Zoysia is different. It can tolerate partial shade, making it an excellent choice for yards with trees or other obstructions that block the sun.

Please note that you will be receiving a live plant, not just seeds. This ensures that you will be able to enjoy a healthy, thriving lawn in no time. The Zoysia Sod Plugs will be shipped within 2-5 days of your order being placed, ensuring that you receive your live plant as quickly as possible.

8. Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Dense Shade Mixture – 3 Lbs.

The A-LIST mixture is a superior quality lawn seed product designed to be used on lawns that receive no more than 4-6 hours of filtered sun per day. With a proprietary blend of premium quality seeds, this product is 99.9% weed-free, creating the perfect lawn.

The A-LIST mixture boasts superior resistance to drought, insects, disease, heat, and heavy traffic from children and pets. The uncoated seed ensures maximum seed coverage, providing a thick, lush lawn.

This product covers up to 750 sq. ft. when seeding a new lawn and 1,500 sq. ft. when overseeding an existing lawn. Pairing this product with GreenView Fairway Formula Seeding Success, a one-step starter fertilizer and seeding mulch, guarantees successful seed germination.

With fast seed germination in as little as 7 days, the A-LIST mixture provides professional results that are guaranteed. Additionally, the GreenView Yard Wide Guarantee ensures customer satisfaction. If for any reason you are not satisfied with this product, your money will be refunded.

9. Zoysia Sod Plugs – 9 Large 3" X 3" Plugs – Drought, Salt & Shade Tolerant Turf Grass

The Zoysia grass, exclusively shipped by Florida Foliage, is the perfect addition to your yard if you desire a lush, green appearance. With densely packed blades, this grass provides a plush carpet feel that invites barefoot walks and welcomes a variety of activities without showing extensive wear and tear.

This grass performs at its best with 4 to 6 hours of sunlight, and it maintains year-round color in frost-free climates with seasonal dormancy. It is highly resilient and tolerates wear and tear, absorbs impact, and resists weed growth. It is an ideal option for high traffic areas and thrives in hot weather conditions.

These sod plugs are designed to be planted 15 inches apart and will grow together over time, providing a coverage area of 32 square feet when properly cared for. The Zoysia grass grows into a beautiful low-maintenance lawn, as mature plugs are already producing runners.

For those ordering Zoysia plugs during the fall/winter season, they will arrive dormant and will not display their full color until warmer weather returns.

10. 50 Zoysia Grass Plugs & Auger | Beginner's Pack

Introducing the perfect solution to your lawn care needs – 50 Zoysia plugs and 1 auger (compatible with cordless drills)! These Zoysia plugs are already producing runners, meaning that they will grow into a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn in no time.

Zoysia is an excellent choice for those seeking a grass that can withstand both cold and drought conditions. This sun-loving variety is perfect for full sun exposure and requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day.

If you're worried about the initial appearance of your Zoysia plugs, don't be! Plugs ordered in fall or winter may arrive dormant and appear brown in color, but will quickly green up once the warmer weather returns.

One of the best things about Zoysia is that it requires less mowing and watering, making it a low-maintenance option for any homeowner. During the summer months, you'll have the greenest lawn on the block without having to put in too much effort.

After planting your Zoysia plugs, be sure to water them for at least 1 hour each day for the first 14 days. This will ensure that they establish strong roots and grow into a beautiful, lush lawn.

Upgrade your lawn care routine with Zoysia plugs and enjoy the benefits of a low-maintenance, drought-resistant lawn.

Best Zoysia Grass For Shade FAQs

Are there any specific maintenance requirements for zoysia grass growing in shade?

Yes, Zoysia grass has specific maintenance requirements when growing in shady areas. Zoysia grass is known for its sun-loving nature and can thrive in full sun conditions, but it can also grow in partial shade. However, when growing in shade, it requires extra attention and care to maintain its health and vitality.

The first thing to consider when growing Zoysia grass in the shade is to ensure that the soil is well-drained. Zoysia grass does not tolerate waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is recommended to water Zoysia grass only when the soil is dry to the touch.

Another important maintenance requirement is to mow the grass at the right height. Zoysia grass should be mowed at a height of 1-2 inches, but when growing in shade, it should be mowed at a slightly higher height to allow for more leaf surface to absorb sunlight.

Lastly, it is essential to provide adequate fertilizer and nutrients to the Zoysia grass growing in shade. A balanced fertilizer with a higher ratio of nitrogen should be applied to promote growth and improve the grass's overall health.

Overall, with proper maintenance and care, Zoysia grass can thrive in shady areas and provide a lush green lawn.

Can zoysia grass be grown in densely shaded areas like under trees or bushes?

Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass that is known for its dense growth and ability to withstand heat, drought, and heavy foot traffic. Although it prefers full sun, it can also tolerate some shade. However, it is important to note that zoysia grass requires at least four hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive, so it may not be the best choice for areas that are densely shaded all day long.

If you are looking to grow zoysia grass in a shaded area, it is important to choose a variety that is known for its shade tolerance, such as Zeon Zoysia or El Toro Zoysia. These varieties are better adapted to low light conditions and will perform better than other varieties of zoysia grass.

It is also important to take steps to improve the soil quality and reduce competition from other plants. This can be done by adding organic matter to the soil, using a shade-tolerant fertilizer, and pruning nearby trees or bushes to allow more light to reach the grass.

Overall, while zoysia grass can be grown in shaded areas, it is important to choose the right variety and take steps to improve growing conditions for optimal results.

Can zoysia grass tolerate full or partial shade?

Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass that is known for its tolerance to heat, drought, and traffic. It is a versatile grass that can grow in a variety of soil types and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, it is important to note that zoysia grass requires a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If it receives less than this, it will grow slowly and may become thin and patchy.

In areas where shade is a concern, some varieties of zoysia grass are better suited than others. For example, Emerald zoysia and Zoysia japonica are known to be more shade tolerant than other varieties such as Zoysia matrella. It is also important to make sure that the soil is well-draining and not too compacted, as this can further impede the grass's ability to grow in shaded areas. Overall, while zoysia grass can tolerate partial shade, it is important to choose the right variety and provide the right growing conditions to ensure it thrives.

Does zoysia grass require more or less sunlight than other types of grass?

Zoysia grass is a warm-season turfgrass that requires a moderate amount of sunlight to thrive well. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly. This grass type is known for its shade tolerance, but it still requires some sunlight to photosynthesize and produce energy for growth.

Compared to other types of grass, zoysia grass requires less sunlight than some and more than others. For instance, it requires more sunlight than St. Augustine grass and less sunlight than fescue grass. Bermuda grass is another warm-season grass that requires full sun, while Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass are cool-season grasses that require more shade.

In summary, zoysia grass requires a moderate amount of sunlight to grow properly. It can tolerate some shade, but it still needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Therefore, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight available in your area before planting zoysia grass.

How does zoysia grass compare to other shade-tolerant grasses like fescue and ryegrass?

Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass that is more shade-tolerant than other warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass or St. Augustine grass, but less so than cool-season grasses like fescue and ryegrass. Zoysia grass can tolerate up to 50% shade, which is significantly more shade than other warm-season grasses can handle. However, fescue and ryegrass can tolerate up to 80% shade.

One advantage of zoysia grass is that it requires less water and fertilizer than fescue and ryegrass. Zoysia grass is also more drought-tolerant than fescue and ryegrass. Additionally, zoysia grass is more wear-resistant than fescue and ryegrass, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas.

Another consideration is that zoysia grass is slower to establish than fescue and ryegrass, taking up to two years to fully establish. Fescue and ryegrass, on the other hand, can establish in as little as a few weeks.

Overall, the choice of grass depends on the specific needs of the lawn. If the lawn receives moderate shade and requires less water and fertilizer, zoysia grass may be a good choice. However, if the lawn is in a heavily shaded area, fescue or ryegrass may be a better option.

How does zoysia grass perform in areas with high foot traffic and shade?

Zoysia grass is a popular warm-season grass variety that can be grown in a wide range of soil types. This grass type has gained popularity due to its ability to withstand drought, heat, and cold. When it comes to areas with high foot traffic and shade, Zoysia grass has proven to be an excellent performer. It is known for its dense growth pattern which makes it ideal for areas that experience heavy foot traffic. Additionally, Zoysia grass is highly tolerant of shade conditions and can grow well in areas with partial shade. However, it's important to note that Zoysia grass requires a minimum of four hours of sunlight per day to thrive. In summary, Zoysia grass is an excellent choice for areas with high foot traffic and shade, provided it receives sufficient sunlight.

What are some tips for successfully growing zoysia grass in shade?

Growing zoysia grass in shade can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Here are some tips for successfully growing zoysia grass in shade:

1. Choose the right variety: There are several varieties of zoysia grass, and some are better suited for shade than others. Choose a variety that is known for its shade tolerance, such as Zoysia japonica or Zoysia tenuifolia.

2. Improve soil quality: Zoysia grass grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve its quality and help it retain moisture.

3. Water regularly: Zoysia grass needs regular watering, especially when grown in shade. Water deeply once a week rather than shallowly more often, as this will encourage deeper root growth.

4. Mow regularly: Regular mowing helps to keep zoysia grass healthy and encourages it to spread. However, avoid mowing the grass too short, as this can damage it and make it more susceptible to disease.

5. Provide adequate light: While zoysia grass can tolerate some shade, it still needs at least four hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If your lawn is heavily shaded, consider thinning out trees or shrubs to allow more light to reach the grass.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow zoysia grass in shade and enjoy a lush, green lawn.

What are the best zoysia grass varieties for growing in shady areas?

Zoysia grass is a popular choice for lawns due to its low maintenance requirements, drought tolerance, and durability. However, not all varieties of zoysia grass are suited for growing in shady areas. If you are looking to plant zoysia grass in a shaded area, there are a few varieties that are better suited for this purpose.

One of the best zoysia grass varieties for shady areas is Zoysia matrella, also known as Manila grass. This variety is known for its shade tolerance and is often used for golf course greens. Another good option is Zoysia tenuifolia, also known as Korean velvet grass, which has a fine texture and is well-suited for low-traffic areas.

Additionally, some varieties of Zoysia japonica have been found to have decent shade tolerance, such as JaMur and El Toro. However, it's important to note that no variety of zoysia grass will thrive in full shade, and they all require at least some sun exposure to grow properly. If you are planting zoysia grass in a shaded area, it's important to make sure the soil is well-draining and that you provide adequate watering and fertilization to ensure the grass stays healthy.

What are the ideal soil and climate conditions for growing zoysia grass in shade?

Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in full sun and tolerates light shade. However, there are certain soil and climate conditions that are ideal for growing zoysia grass in shade.

Firstly, the soil should be well-drained and fertile. Zoysia grass prefers soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity to ensure that the roots have access to sufficient nutrients and moisture.

Secondly, the climate should be warm and humid. Zoysia grass prefers temperatures between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and requires adequate moisture to grow properly. In areas with high humidity, it is important to ensure good air circulation to prevent disease and pest infestation.

Thirdly, the shade should not be too dense. Zoysia grass requires at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly. If the shade is too dense, the grass may become thin and weak, making it susceptible to disease and pest infestation.

Overall, the ideal soil and climate conditions for growing zoysia grass in shade include well-drained and fertile soil, warm and humid climate, and adequate sunlight.

What are the pros and cons of growing zoysia grass in shady areas?

Zoysia grass is a popular warm-season grass that is well-known for its durability and ability to thrive in different soil types. While it can grow in both sunny and shady areas, it is important to consider the pros and cons of growing it in shady areas.

Pros:

– Zoysia grass is a slow-growing grass that requires less mowing than other grass types. This makes it a great option for shady areas where grass growth is slower.

– It has a dense growth pattern that makes it resistant to weeds and pests, which is advantageous in shady areas where competition from weeds and pests is high.

– Zoysia grass is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent option for areas that receive less sunlight.

Cons:

– Zoysia grass requires a minimum of 4 hours of sunlight per day to grow properly. In shady areas, the grass may not receive enough sunlight, leading to slow growth and patchy lawns.

– It is less tolerant of cold temperatures and may not survive harsh winters in areas with long periods of freezing temperatures.

– Zoysia grass is known to be less tolerant of foot traffic, and in shady areas where the grass is already growing slower, it may not be able to recover quickly from damage caused by foot traffic.

Overall, while zoysia grass can grow in shady areas, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight the grass will receive and whether it will be able to withstand foot traffic and harsh winter conditions.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!