Zoysia vs. Palmetto/Sapphire Sod in Miami

Juju’s Beans – posted 04 December 2005 20:35

I am new to Miami (from Seattle) and am not used to the grasses down here. What we called weeds in the NW is considered grass here. We are about to sod the yard and are choosing between Empress/Empire Zoysia & Palmetto/Sapphire St. Augustine. These were the choices the landscaper gave us.

My husband wants to avoid surface “running” grasses as it is what I keep pulling out as “weeds”. We both want soft, small-leaf, vertical, shade-tolerant grass but are not sure if it’s an unrealistic expectation given the area’s soil/sun limitations.

We plan on putting quite a bit of 50-50 down first to fix our overly sandy soil. We will install a sprinkler system as well prior to sod installation. The area gets 4-hrs sun. That said, we have absolutely no idea which kind to choose. Would love to hear from your with your experience and/or expertise.

Thank you!Julie