Choosing the right grass for your southern lawn is a big decision. Two of the most popular warm-season options are Zoysia and Centipede grass. Understanding their differences is key to a healthy, low-maintenance yard that fits your lifestyle.
This guide will compare zoysia vs centipede grass in detail. We’ll look at their needs, strengths, and weaknesses to help you pick the perfect one for your home.
Zoysia vs Centipede Grass
Both grasses thrive in the heat of the southern United States, but they have distinct personalities. Think of Zoysia as the tough, resilient athlete and Centipede as the easy-going, low-key neighbor. Your soil, maintenance commitment, and desired look will point you in the right direction.
Getting to Know the Contenders
Let’s start with a quick profile of each grass type.
Zoysia grass is known for its dense, carpet-like growth and excellent drought tolerance. It establishes a deep root system and can handle foot traffic pretty well. Varieties like ‘Emerald,’ ‘Meyer,’ and ‘Empire’ offer different textures and shades of green. It’s a slower grower, which means less frequent mowing but also slower recovery from damage.
Centipede grass is often called the “lazy man’s grass” for good reason. It grows slowly, requires less fertilizer than most grasses, and adapts well to poor, acidic soils. It has a lighter green color and a coarser texture than many Zoysias. Centipede spreads by above-ground runners called stolons, creating a relatively low-maintenance lawn.
Side-by-Side Comparison Chart
Here’s a breakdown of how these two grasses stack up in critical categories.
* Climate Zone: Both suit the warm, humid Southeast (USDA zones 7-10). Centipede is slightly more cold-sensitive.
* Soil Preference: Zoysia tolerates a wider pH range (6.0-7.0). Centipede loves acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.0) and struggles in alkaline conditions.
* Drought Tolerance: Zoysia has very good drought tolerance. Centipede has moderate tolerance but can go dormant quickly in drought.
* Shade Tolerance: Zoysia has fair to moderate shade tolerance (varies by type). Centipede prefers full sun but tolerates light shade.
* Traffic Tolerance: Zoysia handles moderate foot traffic well. Centipede has poor traffic tolerance and is easily damaged.
* Mowing Height: Zoysia is best kept at 1-2.5 inches. Centipede should be mowed at 1.5-2 inches.
* Fertilizer Needs: Zoysia needs moderate feeding (2-4 times per year). Centipede needs very little fertilizer (1-2 times per year, if at all).
* Establishment Speed: Zoysia establishes slowly from sod or plugs. Centipede establishes slowly from seed or sod.
Detailed Breakdown: Where Each Grass Excels
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what it’s like to live with each grass.
Zoysia Grass: The Durable Performer
If you want a lawn that looks and feels luxurious, Zoysia is a top contender.
Its dense growth chokes out weeds naturally once it’s fully established. This density also gives it that coveted “carpet” feel underfoot. While it turns a golden tan after the first hard frost, it greens up reliably in the spring. It’s a tough grass that can handle kids playing and occasional gatherings.
However, Zoysia demands patience. Establishing a lawn from plugs can take two to three growing seasons to fill in completely. It also tends to form a thick layer of thatch, which may require periodic dethatching to keep it healthy and prevent water runoff.
Centipede Grass: The Low-Input Choice
For minimalists or those with large properties, Centipede grass is incredibly appealing.
Its biggest advantage is low fertility. Over-fertilizing Centipede is a common mistake that leads to problems like iron chlorosis (yellowing) and increased thatch. It truly thrives on neglect compared to other southern grasses. It’s also one of the more affordable options to establish from seed.
The trade-offs are in its durability and color. It has a naturally lighter, almost yellow-green hue. It won’t create a dense, traffic-resistant turf; heavy use will wear it down. It’s also susceptible to a pest called the ground pearl and can be damaged by common herbicides.
Making the Final Choice for Your Lawn
So, which one should you choose? Ask yourself these questions.
Choose ZOYSIA grass if:
* Your soil is neutral or only slightly acidic.
* You desire a dense, dark green, manicured appearance.
* Your lawn gets moderate foot traffic from pets or family.
* You are willing to invest more time and resources into maintenance.
* You need better drought tolerance.
Choose CENTIPEDE grass if:
* Your soil is distinctly acidic and perhaps not the richest.
* You prefer a very low-maintenance, low-fertilizer lawn.
* Your lawn is mostly for looks and gets very little heavy traffic.
* You are working with a tighter budget for establishment and care.
* You live in a region with consistent rainfall.
Planting and Care Essentials
Getting your grass off to a good start is crucial. Here’s the basic process for each.
Planting Zoysia:
1. Test your soil and amend to adjust the pH if needed.
2. Plant sod, plugs, or sprigs in late spring to early summer when soil is warm.
3. Water daily for the first two weeks to keep soil moist.
4. Begin mowing once it reaches its recommended height.
Planting Centipede:
1. Confirm your soil is acidic; lime is rarely needed.
2. Sow seed or lay sod in late spring to early summer.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist until seeds germinate and seedlings establish.
4. Mow only when necessary, ensuring you never remove more than 1/3 of the blade.
Ongoing Care for Zoysia:
* Mowing: Use a sharp blade. Dull blades will tear the tough leaves, giving a whitish cast.
* Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in late spring and again in mid-summer.
* Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots.
* Thatch: Dethatch every year or two if the thatch layer exceeds 1/2 inch.
Ongoing Care for Centipede:
* Mowing: Keep it at the higher end of its range to promote health.
* Fertilizing: Apply a light application of a low-phosphorus, high-potassium fertilizer in late spring only if needed.
* Watering: Water during extended dry spells to prevent dormancy.
* Weeds: Control weeds pre-emergently in early spring, being careful with herbicide selection.
Common Problems and Solutions
Every grass has its vulnerabilities. Here’s what to watch for.
Zoysia’s main issues stem from its thatch and slow growth. Thatch buildup can harbor pests and disease. Large brown patch fungus can also be a problem in humid, wet conditions. The slow growth means bare spots take longer to fill in on there own.
For Centipede, the classic issue is “Centipede decline.” This is often caused by over-fertilizing, over-watering, or soil pH that is too high. It also can suffer from nematode damage and is less resilient to common weed control products. Always follow label instructions carefully.
FAQ Section
Which is more expensive, Zoysia or Centipede grass?
Initially, Centipede is often less expensive, especially if seeded. Zoysia sod costs more upfront. Long-term, Zoysia may require more budget for fertilizer and pest control.
Can I mix Zoysia and Centipede grass?
It’s not recommended. They have different soil pH needs, growth habits, and maintenance requirements. One will typically out-compete the other, leading to a patchy, uneven lawn.
Which grass stays green longer?
Zoysia usually retains its green color later into the fall and greens up earlier in the spring compared to Centipede. Both will go dormant (turn brown) after a hard freeze.
Is Zoysia or Centipede better for shade?
Generally, some Zoysia varieties (like ‘Zeon’ or ‘Emerald’) tolerate partial shade better than Centipede. Neither does well in deep, full shade.
How do I know if my soil is right for Centipede?
A simple soil test is essential. If your soil pH is above 6.5, Centipede will likely struggle and you’d be better off choosing Zoysia or amending the soil significantly over time.
The best choice between Zoysia and Centipede grass comes down to your specific conditions and expectations. Assess your soil, be honest about the amount of care you want to provide, and consider how you use your yard. With the right grass in place, you’ll spend less time struggling and more time enjoying your beautiful southern lawn.