Liming a zoysia lawn is a way to raise the pH of the soil. Soil pH is measured on a scale of 0-14 with 7 being neutral. A soil pH below 7 is considered acidic while a soil pH above 7 is considered basic (alkaline). Zoysia grass prefers a soil pH of 6-7. The pH of soil is important because it affects the availability of different nutrients. Nitrogen in the soil is more available at a pH of 6 rather than a pH of 5. Liming the lawn would actually increase the nitrogen available to grass roots. In addition, a soil pH below 5 or above 7.5 can decrease the effectiveness of slow release fertilizers.
The best way to determine your lawn's pH is to have the soil tested by your local Cooperative Extension Service. The soil test result will recommend the amount of lime needed to raise the pH to the optimal level.
Many Southern soils are acidic and will need approximately 50 pounds of lime per 1000 square feet. Whenever possible, purchase pelletized lime since it is much easier to distribute. Broadcast pelletized lime with a fertilizer spreader, or by hand. Lime can take up to three months to affect the pH of your soil and can be applied at any time of the year. Since lime moves slowly in the soil, the best time to apply it is when planting or just after aerating.
Occasionally, you may encounter an alkaline Southern soil with a pH above 7.5. In such a case, you can lower the soil pH to the 6 - 7 range with an elemental sulfur product. The most common form of elemental sulfur is aluminum sulfate. It is often available in 50 pound bags and should be applied at the rate recommended on the bag.
Links Regarding Maintaining a Zoysia Grass Lawn
- Mowing Zoysia Grass
- Irrigating Zoysia Grass
- Fertilizing Zoysia Grass
- Soil pH and Lime for Zoysia Grass
- Aerating Zoysia Grass
- Dethatching Zoysia Grass
- Weed Control for Zoysia Grass
- Insect and Pests problems in Zoysia Grass
- Diseases in Zoysia Grass
- Renovating a Zoysia Grass Lawn
- Planting a Zoysia Grass Lawn
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