Empire Zoysia

Empire Zoysia, a selected native cultivar of Zoysia Japonica, chosen specifically for its ability to reduce production costs while demonstrating very desirable growth characteristics. Reduced production costs are achieved by EMPIRE's rapid expansion rate, reproduction from rhizomes, and its natural chemical resistance for easier weed control.

EMPIRE demonstrates superior dark green color, wide bladed and open growth habit, natural chemical resistance to MSMA, 2-4-D, and Fusilade II, and good drought tolerance. EMPIRE was discovered in Brazil, and unlike other Zoysia varieties, has proven its ability to thrive in hot, humid conditions.

EMPIRE has performed well in sandy and clay soil types with aggressive growth from its runners and rhizomes, but can be mowed with a standard rotary mower due to its broader leaf and open growth habit. It requires less maintenance and mowing than other grasses such as Fescue or Bermuda. This versatile turfgrass thrives in agriculture zones 6B-11 and is being tested in zones 5 and 6 for cold hardiness extremes.

Winter Color

Zoysia is dormant in most zones except 9-11.

Hot Weather Tolerance

Excellent. Turfgrass thrives in hot, humid and desert areas

Cold Tolerance

Excellent in zones 6B-11. Research ongoing for zones 5-6

Shade Tolerance

Moderate to good, comparible to Centipede

Wear Resistance

Excellent

Salt Tolerance

Excellent. Empire Zoysia thrives near coastal areas

Mowing Height

1-2 inces but can be mowed 1/2 - 1 inch when maintained properly

Recovery from Injury

Excellent. Runners and rhizomes fill in damaged areas.

Root Structure

Fine, deep, massive, rhizomes spread underground

Drought Tolerance

Excellent once established

Texture

Wide, soft, more open than most Zoysias.