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WATERING—Incorrect watering is the most common mistake made while
establishing a lawn. Newly installed sod should be kept well watered for a
period of 10 days to 2 weeks. This is the most critical period in the life
of your lawn. Water several times a day increasing frequency for extremely
hot or windy weather.
After your lawn is established (approximately 6 - 8 weeks) less water
will be required. El Toro Zoysia grass does not tolerate a water logged
condition. A thorough irrigation every 3 - 4 days in warmer weather ( 5 - 7
days in cooler weather) of one hour or until run-off appears is sufficient
in most situations. Your goal is to achieve water penetration to a depth of
6 inches. This will encourage deep rooting and a healthier lawn. (Short
frequent waterings on established sod creates a shallow root system and
susceptibility to insect and disease problems.) Verify the depth of watering
by probing soil with a screwdriver or sharp instrument. If the screwdriver
enters the soil easily to a depth of 6 - 8 inches you have achieved proper
moisture penetration.
MOWING—Mowing height may vary between 1 to 2 inches depending on
preference. Minimally a mowing height of 1 inch is recommended twice per
month. More frequent weekly mowings during the growing season of ¾ inch
will prevent thatch build up and puffy, irregular surfaces. A sharp well
adjusted reel mower is recommended, but a rotary mower can be used if a
taller, blade-grass look is preferred. Clipping removal is recommended for a
healthy lawn.
FERTILIZING—The pre-plant fertilizer put down before you
installed your sod will take care of the fertilizer requirements for the
first month. Maintenance fertilizer such as Gro-Power
should then be used with subsequent applications monthly during the growing
season to achieve good growth and color. Follow label instructions on all
fertilizer used. On established lawns, make the first application in the
spring when your lawn begins to recover from dormancy. Well fed lawns resist
disease, weed, and pest infiltrations and have a shorter dormancy period.
Avoid fertilizer burn by thoroughly watering fertilizer particles off the
leaf blades and well into the soil area.
INSECTS, DISEASES AND WEEDS—El Toro Zoysia grass is relatively
resistant to common insects or diseases. A well maintained irrigation and
fertilization program, generally, prevents problems from beginning. Be
especially careful if you resort to chemical means for controlling weeds. Be
sure to follow written instructions provided by the manufacturer.
DORMANCY—El Toro Zoysia will slow its leaf/blade growth as the
average temperatures cool. When soil temperatures drop below 40 degrees,
your lawn will turn brown to reddish brown until temperatures rise again in
the spring. During this period fertilizing and mowing are not necessary.
(Note: El Toro Zoysia sod can be installed anytime of year in most areas of
California because, although leaf growth ceases, roots continue to grow even
during winter dormancy.) Winter color
can be maintained by overseeding or
the application of WinterGreen turf dye
Consult us for answers to all your lawn questions. We are happy to
provide free information and literature.
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