Killing Bermuda now and starting Zoysia is Eastern NC?

Kris – posted 13 April 2005 10:15

We built on old farmland three years ago. We started Bermuda and have had little luck. We have a dog and just got irrigation and want to change to Zoysia by way of seed. I know nothing. We are in Eastern NC and are ready to kill the Bermuda. Can we do this now? How to kill and start Zoysia?Help please! We have also heard from other neighbors that lots of lime is necessary. How do I fertilize as well?

Buck – posted 13 April 2005 15:35

Before you launch another type of turf you should consider why the bermuda failed to thrive. A lot of posts around here from people trying to get rid of bermuda, and having a tough time of it. Why did yours just up and die?

Anyhow, you really need a soil analysis, get it at NCSU or your county extention agent. That will give you a sense for lime, if you need it. Could be that was the problem with the bermuda all along. Unless you correct it, problems will continue.

I also live in eastern NC, have had bermuda for more than a dozen years, and believe it is well-suited for our environment. I’d give it another try if I were you before moving to something else.

ted – posted 13 April 2005 19:06

it’s always the neighbors…..buck is correct- soil test it and to figure out what is happening. bermuda and zoysia are not that different in nature- i don’t buy the lime story…..

Kris – posted 14 April 2005 11:25

Bermuda did OK…probably more us than the grass. We have been looking to change over to Zoysia for a while, just waiting on irrigation. What steps do I need to take to kill the Bermuda and start the Zoysia?(The bermuda is killing me as far as keeping it out of the beds is Zoysia a runner too?)As far as the lime the neighbors yard of course is the yard of envy and they have a professional lawn care specialist come out and he is the one that suggested lime.

Turfmiester – posted 14 April 2005 20:18

I go along with buck, get a soil test. Bermuda is an excellent grass. If it was so bad the golf courses would eradicate it. Look into Seashore Paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum). It spreads by rhizomes & stolons. Mowed at 1″ or less and it becomes real dense. Just a thought.