Origin
Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr. var. matrella is a warm-season grass that is native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly found growing in tropical and subtropical regions, including the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Common Names
Zoysia matrella is commonly known as manilagrass, Korean velvet grass, temple grass, and Philippine grass. In some regions, it is also called Mascarene grass, after the Mascarene Islands where it was introduced.
Uses
The Zoysia matrella grass is primarily used as a turfgrass due to its excellent tolerance to heat, drought, and salt. It is ideal for use on golf courses, commercial and residential lawns, and parks. It has also been used in soil erosion control projects due to its deep and extensive root system. In some countries, it is also consumed as a vegetable.
General Appearance
The Zoysia matrella grass has a fine, stoloniferous growth habit, with an extensive network of roots. It typically grows 2-4 inches tall and has a deep green colour, making it an attractive option for turfgrass. The leaves are short and narrow, reaching a length of 2-3 inches and a width of 1/8 inch. The leaf sheaths are smooth, and the ligule is short and membranous. The seedheads are spike-like, reaching a height of up to 6 inches. Overall, Zoysia matrella is a low-maintenance grass that can withstand harsh environmental conditions and provide an attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Zoysia matrella requires full exposure to sunlight for healthy growth. This plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, so it's essential to plant it in an area that is not shaded by other vegetation. Inadequate sunlight exposure may lead to slow growth and weak foliage, impairing plant performance and appearance.
Temperature Requirements
Warm temperatures ranging from 28 to 32 °C are ideal for Zoysia matrella to thrive. This plant is incredibly sensitive to freezing temperatures and cannot grow in areas where the frost extends beyond the winter months. High humidity levels can also affect its growth and resilience.
Soil Requirements
The soil should be well-draining and fertile for Zoysia matrella to grow, allowing water and nutrients to circulate efficiently. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 and 7.0, and the soil texture should be moderately heavy with a decent amount of organic matter. Sandy soils are less optimal as they do not retain water well. Adequate soil preparation is critical for the successful growth of Zoysia matrella.
Zoysia Matrella Cultivation Methods
Zoysia matrella can be cultivated through seeds or sod. Seeding is a cost-effective method, but it may take longer to establish the lawn. Sodding is a faster way to get an instant lawn, but it requires more investment. Zoysia matrella can grow well in hot and humid conditions, making it an ideal choice for tropical and subtropical regions. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and the pH level is between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. Zoysia matrella can grow on sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but it prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.
Watering Needs
Zoysia matrella is a drought-resistant turfgrass, but it needs enough water to establish a robust and healthy root system. Water the lawn deeply and infrequently to encourage the roots to grow deeper into the soil. Irrigate the lawn with 1 inch of water per week, or sufficient to meet the grass's needs. Water the lawn in the early morning to reduce the chances of fungal diseases. Avoid watering the lawn late in the afternoon since this may create unnecessary humidity in the evening.
Fertilization
Zoysia matrella requires regular fertilization to maintain its lush green color and healthy growth. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 once in early spring, late spring, and late summer. Avoid overfertilizing the lawn since this can cause thatch buildup and damage to the grass. Always follow the label instructions and use the right spreader settings to ensure even coverage.
Pruning
Zoysia matrella requires minimal pruning compared to other lawn grasses. Mow the lawn when the grass height reaches around 1.5 to 2 inches. Always use a sharp mower blade to prevent tearing or shredding the grass blades. Never remove more than one-third of the grass's height during a single mowing session. Remove the grass clippings from the lawn if they are too long or too thick to decompose quickly. De-thatch the lawn in late spring or early summer to remove any accumulated dead grass or thatch.
Propagation of Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr. var. matrella
Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr. var. matrella, commonly known as Manila grass, is a warm-season grass commonly used for lawns, golf courses, and sports fields. Propagation is the process of reproducing plants. Here are some methods for propagating Zoysia matrella:
Vegetative Propagation
Zoysia matrella can be propagated through various vegetative methods, including stolons, rhizomes, and plugs. Stolons are horizontal, above-ground stems that develop from the crown of the mother plant, while rhizomes are underground stems that grow horizontally and produce new shoots. Plugs are individual pieces of sod that have been cut from the mother plant and replanted.
Stolon and rhizome propagation involves planting sections of the mother plant into soil or other suitable growing media and allowing them to take root and grow new shoots. Rooting hormones can also be used to aid in the process. For plug propagation, small pieces of sod can be cut from the mother plant using a plugger or other cutting tool. The plug is then transplanted into the desired location where it will take root and grow.
Seed Propagation
Zoysia matrella can also be propagated through seed. However, seed propagation can be difficult due to the low seed production and seed viability of this plant. The seeds must be planted in a soil or other suitable growing media and kept moist until they germinate. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted into the desired location.
Propagation of Zoysia matrella can be done through various methods, including vegetative propagation and seed propagation. Vegetative propagation is the most common and most successful method for this plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Zoysia Matrella (L.) Merr. var. Matrella
Zoysia Matrella (L.) Merr. var. Matrella is a warm-season grass that is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management practices are crucial in maintaining a healthy and lush Zoysia lawn.
Diseases
Some of the most common diseases that affect Zoysia Matrella grass include;
Brown Patch
Brown patch is a fungal disease that causes circular brown patches up to several feet in diameter. These patches may merge together to form large spots that can kill the grass. Brown patch thrives in warm, humid conditions and can spread rapidly. To manage brown patch, avoid excessive watering or irrigating at night. Remove thatch buildup and provide adequate drainage to avoid water-filled pockets. Chemical fungicides or natural products can also treat brown patch.
Large Patch
Large patch is a fungal disease that primarily affects Zoysia grass. It causes large, circular patches that can extend up to ten feet. The patches appear orange to yellow in color and later turn brown. Large patch thrives in cool, humid weathers and heavily fertilized lawns. To manage large patch, avoid nitrogen fertilization during fall. Aerate the soil to prevent moisture buildup. Use a fungicide labeled for large patch prevention.
Take-All Root Rot
Take-all root rot is a fungal disease that causes wilting and thinning of Zoysia grass blades. It has been reported in Zoysia Matrella although it is not a common occurrence. To manage take-all root rot, ensure adequate drainage and avoid overwatering. Use aronic acid and other fungicides to manage this disease.
Pests
Various pests can damage Zoysia Matrella grass, including;
Armyworms
Armyworms are a common pest that can cause extensive damage to your Zoysia lawn. They feed on blades, and in severe cases, the entire grass plant can be consumed. To manage armyworms, apply insecticides when the larvae are visible on the grass. Regular mowing and irrigation can also deter armyworms.
Chinch Bugs
Chinch bugs are tiny insects that suck the sap out of your Zoysia grass leaves. They can cause yellow patches that later turn brown. To manage chinch bugs, mow the grass regularly, irrigate deeply, and fertilize adequately. Use insecticides as a last resort as overuse can lead to insect resistance and environmental pollution.
Mole Crickets
Mole crickets burrow into the soil and feed on Zoysia roots and stems. They cause wilting, yellowing, and ultimately death of your grass. To manage mole crickets, flood the lawn and remove standing water. Apply insecticides labeled for mole cricket control.
Implementing proper pest and disease management practices is essential in keeping your Zoysia Matrella lawn healthy and thick. A good cultural management strategy should be implemented to minimize pesticide use.
