Zoysia vs Buffalo: A Comparison
Two of the most popular grass selections – Zoysia grass and Buffalograss- are both lush and beautiful grass species suited for large & small-scale planting. Because each grass is suitable for different landscapes and conditions, comparing the two isn’t necessarily about pros or cons and ultimately comes down to what suits your needs best. Take a quick look at our rundown of key points of the two grass types.
Zoysiagrass
- Better shade tolerance
- Forms a denser and thicker sod, preventing weed growth
- Excellent traffic tolerance
- Cold tolerant
- Pest resistant
- Drought tolerant
- Excellent disease resistance when maintained properly
- More difficult to mow
- Typically, Zoysia grass is mowed with either a rotary or reel mower.
- Requires approx 1” of water every 7-10 days, depending on soil type & weather, to remain green
- More expensive because of slow cultivation rate
- Darker green
Buffalograss
- Requires full sun; will not grow in shade conditions
- Although denser than other Buffalo cultivars, Density is not as thick as Zoysia, making it more prone to weeds
- Performs well in heavy clay & alkaline soils
- Reduced quality in areas that receive more than 30″ of rainfall per year
- Cold tolerant
- Pest tolerant
- Drought tolerant
- Easy to mow
- Mowing higher (around 3.5-4″) reduces weeds
- Pre-emergent herbicides are essential to weed management
- Requires approx 1″ water every 7-10 days, depending on soil type & weather, to remain green
- Less expensive
- Blue-green
Both of these grasses have their benefits and drawbacks, and depending on your lawn, each factor weighs differently. If either of these grasses sounds suitable for your lawn and grass needs, you can shop online at The Grass Outlet. If you have further questions or would like to discuss other options, contact The Grass Outlet today to talk to a professional.
