Zoysia grass is a fantastic choice if you live in the transition zone, especially cultivars of Zoysia japonica that can withstand freezing temperatures. Overseeding with cool-season grass can keep it green even while it goes brown during winter dormancy. Particularly, Zoysia matrella cultivars or shade-adapted varieties like El Toro and JaMur thrive in coastal regions with well-draining soil and can withstand some shade.

This grass is a fantastic choice for busy families because it can tolerate high foot activity. Compared to other warm-season grasses, it takes longer to recover from damage because of its moderate growth rate.

Zoysia grass needs little nitrogen fertilizer and only moderate upkeep. It needs mild, frequent dethatching because it accumulates more thatch than other sods. Although this grass is generally resistant to disease and pests, keep an eye out for dollar spot, powdery mildew, white grubs, and chinch bugs.