Zoysia in Los Angeles

mpedward – posted 15 May 2011 13:50

Hello!

I’m flattening out my backyard in Los Angeles and am about to install Sod. I’ve been trying to decide what kind but there are several “issues” I’m trying to factor in:

1) We get about 6 hours of sun a day, but we have two trees (one of them is largish) in our backyard so certain spots may get considerably less (maybe 3-4).

2) Small 20lb dog that likes to run and I’m hoping to get something that he can’t wear out easily.

3) Want the grass to withstand moderate wear from kids playing on it.

4) Would like a grass that’s somewhat drought resistant, which is why I’ve crossed off St. Augustine.

5) We have some flower beds and vegetable garden so I really don’t want Bermuda.

I’ve been leaning towards a Zoysia brand – possibly Zeon because of the shade issues and wanted to get input from the people on the site to see if this was a good choice for the Los Angeles Area (or maybe there’s something better out there – El Toro?).Also, I’ve been having problems finding landscapers who even know what Zoysia is or where to find it. Does anyone have any recommendations for Zoysia nurseries or sod installers in Southern California?

Thanks a bunch!

Matt

Stan – posted 16 May 2011 22:53

I think there is one called Palisades that was developed in California. I do think that El Toro is slightly more shade tolerant. You might want to check out Empire which came from Brazil. Not sure if that is similar to our climate. It does well in the South with humid weather so that might not work in CA. Good Luck!