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Native to Asia, zoysia is a warm-season turf grass commonly grown in the southern part of the U.S., where summer temps easily reach the century mark. It tolerates extreme heat, high humidity, and even slight drought. In general, most all-purpose lawn fertilizer products are also optimal for zoysia grass because turf grasses have similar nutritional needs.
Those looking to establish a new zoysia lawn or boost the health of an existing one can often do so by applying lawn fertilizer. Our favorite fertilizer for zoysia grass is the Scotts Green Max Lawn Food for its easy-to-apply granular formula; NPK ratio of 27-0-2; and 10,000-square-foot coverage area. However, we found all the selected products on this list to be effective and reliable.
Ahead, learn what type of fertilizer is desirable for use on a zoysia spread, and find out why the following lawn-food products are among the best fertilizers for zoysia grass.
- BEST OVERALL: Scotts Green Max Lawn Food
Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food
Jump to Review - BEST BALANCED FORMULA: Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK
Jump to Review - BEST PLUS WEED CONTROL: Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3
Jump to Review - BEST FOR ALKALINE SOIL: The Andersons PGF Complete 16-4-8 Fertilizer
Jump to Review - BEST WITH MICRONUTRIENTS: Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Energizer
Jump to Review - BEST SLOW-RELEASE: Milorganite Slow-Release Nitrogen 6-4-0 Fertilizer
Jump to Review - ALSO CONSIDER: Pennington 100536576 UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer
Jump to Review
How We Chose the Best Fertilizers for Zoysia Grass
Lawn fertilizer products are straightforward, and most contain high nitrogen levels, the most critical nutrient for greening up a lawn and boosting growth. We looked extensively at dozens of lawn fertilizer products before selecting the ones in this lineup as among the best for zoysia grass.
In general, most lawn fertilizers will be good bets for applying to zoysia grass because zoysia has the same nutritional needs as other turfgrasses. We looked at nationally known companies with stellar reputations for making quality lawn and garden products, such as Miracle-Gro and Scotts. Still, we didn’t automatically eliminate fertilizers from smaller or niche manufacturers if they contained quality ingredients.
Finally, we looked at how satisfied customers were with different lawn fertilizer products. In the final analysis, we considered products containing additional ingredients, although our focus was still on ensuring that the product had adequate nitrogen.
Our Top Picks
To qualify for a spot in this lineup of the best fertilizers for zoysia grass and be considered an asset to regular lawn care, the following products had to meet specific criteria. They have a higher nitrogen ratio than potassium or phosphorus, which is a must for any lawn fertilizer; they are straightforward to apply; and they contain quality ingredients. The following lawn fertilizers vary slightly in usage and nutritional ingredients, but each is a standout in its category.
Best Overall
Scotts Green Max Lawn Food
Product Specs
- Type: Granular
- Coverage: Up to 10,000 square feet
- NPK ratio: 27-0-2
What We Like
- High nitrogen content boosts growth and added iron promotes quick greening
- Versatile formula can be applied in any season and to any grass variety
- Treats areas of up to 10,000 square feet; comes in a smaller size if needed
What We Don’t Like
- Can stain concrete, driveways, and other surfaces found around plants when not used as directed
For quick zoysia greening and a boost in growth, consider Scotts Green Max Lawn Food, which features a high nitrogen 27-0-2 NPK ratio. In addition to the standard nutrients, Green Max contains iron, a micronutrient that helps lawn grasses green up quickly.
The manufacturer recommends using a drop spreader to apply this granular product for best results. When applied as directed, a 33.33-pound bag treats up to 10,000 square feet of lawn. Keep it off sidewalks and driveways, as iron tends to leave rusty stains on concrete and masonry. Brush off any errant product with a broom promptly to prevent staining.
Get the Scotts Green Max fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon, Lowe’s or Walmart (16.9lbs).
Best Bang For The Buck
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food
Product Specs
- Type: Water-soluble granules
- Coverage: Up to 7,200 square feet
- NPK ratio: 36-0-6
What We Like
- Absorbs quickly into the ground and grass roots for strong growth, improved color, and density
- Simply pour granules and water into a hose-end applicator and apply
- Suitable for small to large yards; covers up to 7,200 square feet per 5-pound bag
What We Don’t Like
- Must have a hose applicator to apply; not included with purchase
There’s no need to spend a lot of green to feed a zoysia lawn. Miracle-Gro’s affordable water-soluble fertilizer comes with a high-nitrogen NPK ratio of 36-0-6, which helps grass develop a rich green color while boosting health and encouraging dense growth.
This option comes in a 5-pound bag of water-soluble fertilizer. Just dump a bag into a hose-end applicator, and connect the applicator to the end of a garden hose. When the water is turned on, the fertilizer is diluted and dispersed evenly for spraying over the lawn. A single box treats up to 7,200 square feet and is mild enough to use every 2 to 3 weeks if desired. It’s a budget-friendly way to keep a zoysia lawn healthy and looking great.
Get the Miracle-Gro fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon or Ace Hardware.
Best Balanced Formula
Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 Balanced NPK
Product Specs
- Type: Concentrated liquid
- Coverage: Up to 3,200 square feet
- NPK ratio: 16-4-8
What We Like
- Contains beneficial nutrients, including seaweed and fish, creating a more effective lawn food with optimal nutrient uptake
- Comes with a built-in sprayer attachment for ease of application; no measuring or mixing required before use
- Suitable for 3,200 square feet of any grass type
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly pricey for the coverage area provided
- Some users have reported difficulty using the hose attachment
Those looking to add a broader range of nutrients to their zoysia lawn may appreciate Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced 16-4-8 liquid fertilizer. It provides ample nitrogen and smaller amounts of phosphorus and potassium to help with root growth and encourage rich color. The product also contains seaweed and fish emulsions that may help balance soil that lacks nutrients (a soil test is recommended to be sure).
Simple Lawn Solutions is a concentrated liquid, but there’s no need to worry about measuring or mixing. It comes in its own spray dispenser that attaches to a garden hose for uniform distribution. One 32-ounce bottle treats up to 3,200 square feet of lawn.
Get the Simple Lawn Solutions Advanced fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon, or Simple Lawn Solutions.
Best Plus Weed Control
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3
Product Specs
- Type: Granular
- Coverage: Up to 5,000 square feet
- NPK ratio: 28-0-3
What We Like
- High nitrogen content for lawn greening and a 2,4-D herbicide for killing broadleaf weeds
- Suitable for areas of up to 5,000 square feet of zoysia, Bahia, Bermuda, bluegrass, centipede, and other grass types
- Easy to apply with most broadcast or drop fertilizer spreaders
What We Don’t Like
- Herbicide performance may suffer if the lawn is dry at application
- Should not be exposed to water within 24 hours of application
Dandelions and clover are no match for Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3, which does double duty as a fertilizer and a pesky weed killer. Its high-nitrogen NPK ratio is 28-0-3, making it well suited for greening up lawns, including zoysia lawns, and encouraging the grass to reach a rich color.
In addition to its nutritional content, Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed contains 2,4-D, a selective herbicide that kills annual weeds but won’t harm zoysia grass. The manufacturer recommends mowing the grass and watering it before applying this fertilizer—the 2,4-D herbicide adheres best to damp leaf blades, giving it the most weed-killing power.
One 14.29-pound bag of granular Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed for zoysia grass treats up to 5,000 square feet of lawn and is suitable for use in a broadcast or drop spreader.
Get the Scotts Turf Builder fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best For Soil Conditioner
The Andersons PGF Complete 16-4-8 Fertilizer
Product Specs
- Type: Granular
- Coverage: Up to 5,000 square feet
- NPK ratio: 16-4-8
What We Like
- High nitrogen content as well as humic acid to the neutralize pH levels
- Slow-release nutrients for continual feeding for up to 8 weeks on any grass variety
- Small particle size is capable of providing even distribution and excellent coverage
- Fast-acting formula offers visible results in 6 to 14 days
What We Don’t Like
- Other amendments may be required to reduce high pH levels
Zoysia grass grows best in soil with a pH between 6 and 6.5, but if your yard is higher on the pH scale, fertilizing with a product that neutralizes pH might be a good idea. (Rather than guessing at the pH level, the best course of action is to have the soil tested by a local extension agency or soil test kit.)
The Andersons Professional PGF fertilizer contains humic acid, which helps neutralize pH levels in any turf type. In addition, the product features a 16-4-8 NPK ratio, so the grass will receive a healthy dose of nitrogen and small amounts of phosphorus and potassium. An 18-pound bag of The Andersons PGF fertilizer will treat up to 5,000 square feet for up to 8 weeks, with visible results in 6 to 14 days.
Be aware that this product can help neutralize the pH level, but depending on the soil test results, it may not be sufficient for reducing it to an optimal level for growing zoysia. A professional soil test will be required to determine that.
Get The Andersons fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon (18 pounds).
Best For Maintenance
Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Energizer
Product Specs
- Type: Concentrated liquid
- Coverage: Up to 12,800 square feet
- NPK ratio: 6-0-0
What We Like
- Nitrogen for boosting grass color with added nutrients to balance slightly depleted soil
- Easy-to-use concentrated liquid provides enough product for multiple or large-scale application
- Can be used on all grass types
What We Don’t Like
- Must be diluted and poured into a sprayer before use; sprayer not included
Most of the time, high nitrogen is all that’s necessary to boost grass color and health, but that doesn’t mean additional nutrients won’t be beneficial, especially if the soil is depleted of natural nutrients (a soil test is the best way to find out).
Simple Lawn Solutions Lawn Energizer contains an added oomph of nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and manganese, which are trace minerals designed to enhance soil. The iron and nitrogen content encourages a rich color and robust growth, while the other nutrients may help root growth and overall grass density.
The product comes in a 1-gallon concentrated liquid form and can be diluted and applied via a pump-type garden sprayer to spaces of up to 12,800 square feet. Note: While Lawn Energizer may boost the health of slightly depleted soil, it may not be sufficient for correcting significant soil problems—only the result of a professional soil test will let home landscapers know how to properly amend the soil.
Get the Simple Lawn Solutions Energizer fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon and Simple Lawn Solutions (32 ounces).
Best Slow-Release
Milorganite 32 lb. Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer
Product Specs
- Type: Slow-release granules
- Coverage: Up to 2,500 square feet
- NPK ratio: 6-4-0
What We Like
- Slowly releases nutrients into the grass and roots for 8 to 10 weeks
- Iron-enriched formula provides quick greening and healthy growth
- Environmentally friendly formula is suitable for homes near animals or wildlife
What We Don’t Like
- Iron ingredients may stain concrete if not removed promptly
- May leave behind a slight earthy aroma when first applied
Some lawn fertilizers should be applied every 2 weeks, but Milorganite Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizer dissolves gradually, so it keeps feeding the grass for up to 10 weeks. This product has a 6-4-0 NPK ratio and contains iron to help green up the lawn quickly.
A 32-pound bag of Milorganite Fertilizer treats up to 2,500 square feet of lawn. If that seems like less coverage than other fertilizers, keep in mind that it works longer, so fewer feedings are necessary throughout the summer. The granulated formulation can be applied with a drop spreader or a broadcast spreader. To keep the iron in the product from staining concrete, sweep away any excess product that gets on sidewalks and patios immediately after application.
Get the Milorganite fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware.
Also Consider
Pennington 100536576 UltraGreen Lawn Fertilizer
Product Specs
- Type: Granular, slow-release
- Coverage: Up to 5,000 square feet
- NPK ratio: 30-0-4
What We Like
- Contains iron for thick greening and slow-release nitrogen for continuous lawn color
- Provides helpful nutrients for up to 3 months before users need to apply again
- Compatible with most drop or broadcast spreaders for ease of application
What We Don’t Like
- Iron ingredients may stain concrete if not promptly removed
- Suitable for application between June and August only
The combination of 5 percent fast-acting iron and 10.5 percent slow-release nitrogen in this Pennington UltraGreen lawn fertilizer is just the ticket for enhancing lackluster lawns for up to 3 months. With an NPK ratio of 30-0-4, there’s plenty of nitrogen to go around, but it dissolves gradually over 3 months to keep grass consistently fed. The iron in Pennington UltraGreen is fast-acting and will help grass develop a rich green color in a few short days.
A 14-pound bag of Pennington UltraGreen covers up to 5,000 square feet and can be applied by either a drop spreader or a broadcast spreader. Be sure to sweep away any product that gets on patios or sidewalks to prevent staining from the iron in the mix.
Get the Pennington fertilizer for zoysia grass at Amazon, or The Home Depot.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Fertilizer for Zoysia Grass
Keep a few basic factors in mind when shopping for a zoysia fertilizer, including yard size and product coverage rates, the overall health of the existing soil, and the preferred application method. For the best results, test the soil before applying fertilizer. Soil test kits are available online and from local extension agencies, many of which allow users to ship samples to a professional lab for testing and soil amendment recommendations.
Standard lawn fertilizers typically do not contain all the components necessary to correct significant soil problems. Rather, their primary purpose is to boost the color of the grass and make it grow faster.
Type
Fertilizer products for treating zoysia lawns are available in three standard types: liquid, water-soluble, and granular. Each has its benefits and considerations.
- Liquid: For the quickest fertilizer uptake, consider applying a liquid product. Of the three types of fertilizer, liquid works the fastest because the blades of grass readily absorb the product. Liquid fertilizers come in ready-to-use solutions and concentrated formulas that require dilution with water.
- Water-soluble: This fertilizer looks grainy, but when mixed with water, it dissolves almost immediately, making it suitable for treating with hose-end applicators. Miracle-Gro fertilizers are often water-soluble, and using them is as easy as dumping a premeasured packet into a hose-end container and then spraying old or new grass. This type of product is absorbed just as quickly as a liquid product.
- Granular: Rather than spraying, granular lawn fertilizers are applied using a fertilizer spreader, such as a drop spreader or broadcast spreader. Many are formulated to release the nutrients over time for continuous lawn feeding.
Soil pH
Zoysia grass grows well in various soil types, including sandy soil and loamy soil. It prefers a slightly acidic soil types from 6 to 6.5 on the pH scale. However, it will often tolerate slightly more alkaline or more acidic soil types (within a 0.4-point range) if other needs are met, such as regular watering and fertilizing. A few types of zoysia grass fertilizer provide pH-balance ingredients. Still, if the existing soil is over 7 (too alkaline) or under 5.6 (too acidic), it may require the application of different amendments, such as sulfur or lime. The only way to know for sure is to have the soil tested at a lab and then amended according to the recommendations before zoysia fertilization.
NPK Ratio
On virtually all zoysia grass fertilizing products (except a few all-natural products), buyers will find an NPK ratio that signifies the amount of the three essential nutrients found in fertilizer: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
Zoysia is like other turf grasses when it comes to an optimal NPK ratio. Look for a ratio where the amount of nitrogen is higher than both phosphorus and potassium. For zoysia, a typical NPK ratio might be 15-1-5, which indicates the product contains 15 parts nitrogen, 1 part phosphorus, and 5 parts potassium by volume.
Nitrogen is necessary for giving zoysia grass a rich green color and for boosting healthy growth. Some lawn fertilizer formulations may contain no phosphorus or potassium at all, in which case the package might read 10-0-0.
Organic vs. Synthetic
Most lawn fertilizers contain synthetic components, but a growing number of manufacturers are developing all-natural fertilizers as consumer preference for eco-friendly products increases. Lawn grasses typically react the same way to the nutrients in either type of fertilizer, so the zoysia grass will benefit from both.
- Synthetic: Fertilizers that contain chemical and artificial ingredients, such as synthetic forms of minerals and nutrients, are often less expensive to produce than natural products. These fertilizers will not go bad but may lose some of their effectiveness over time.
- Organic: Shoppers will likely notice how much more expensive all-natural fertilizers are than synthetic options—some organic products run more than three times as much for a product that covers the same size lawn. The price difference lies in the difficulty of manufacturing organic fertilizers, which typically include earthworm castings and sterilized manure ingredients. Organic fertilizers are often safer to use around pets and people, depending on the specific product.
Application
Zoysia grass doesn’t green up as early in the spring as cool-season grasses, such as fescue, and the general rule of thumb is to wait to apply fertilizer to zoysia until it’s fully green. By waiting, the grass gets a chance to green up naturally, which prompts its roots to wake up from winter and draw on their own energy. This gives them a solid start to the growing season. After the zoysia is green, applying a nitrogen fertilizer will help it maintain rich color and boost growth.
Deciding when to fertilize zoysia also depends on the product. Some products call for applying fertilizer as often as twice a month, while others should be used just once per growing season. Additionally, consider fertilizing the zoysia lawn one last time in the fall. This will strengthen the grass and help it remain resilient and healthy during its upcoming winter dormancy.
FAQs
Zoysia is a hardy, robust type of grass that thrives in heat, but it still requires some care to reach its full lush potential and stay healthy all summer long. Those learning how to care for zoysia grass will undoubtedly have some questions: What is the best fertilizer for zoysia grass, and what makes a zoysia lawn denser?
Apply fertilizer in mid to late spring after the grass greens up, then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for subsequent applications, ranging from every 6 to 12 weeks during the growing season. A final application in the fall before the grass goes dormant is also a good idea to protect the roots of zoysia during its dormancy.
Yes, it’s possible to overfertilize and weaken the grass by applying the fertilizer at a rate that exceeds the recommended rate or by using fertilizer more often than recommended.
Apply a lawn fertilizer that’s high in nitrogen, such as NPK 15-0-8. The high nitrogen will encourage a rich green color. Users will also want to apply fertilizer to grass in the spring when new seedlings are beginning to sprout to ensure they are hardy when fully grown.
Zoysia grass spreads by rhizomes that run beneath the soil. The healthier the grass is, the denser it will become. In addition to zoysia grass fertilization, mow the lawn regularly (once or twice a week) and water during times of drought.
Zoysia can tolerate frequent rainfall and slight drought conditions, but it will stay the healthiest with regular watering. Good zoysia grass care includes making sure the lawn has a minimum of 1 inch of water per week.
Zoysia is a low-growing grass that should be kept mowed at about 1 to 3 inches depending on the type of yard space and the sun exposure. Those with a lot of sun exposure will want to trim their grass to a maximum of 1.5 inches, while those with partial shade will want to consider a 2- to 3-inch mowing height. This is also convenient for those who don’t want to do a lot of maintenance since zoysia grass tends to grow slowly.