How to Grow Manila Grass
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Manila Grass
Zoysia matrella
grassManila grass is a fine-textured, warm-season perennial turfgrass native to Southeast Asia. It forms a dense, attractive lawn with excellent wear tolerance and requires minimal maintenance once established. This grass thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is prized for its soft feel and ability to handle both sun and partial shade.
When should you plant Manila Grass in your zone?
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Example Manila Grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Manila Grass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Manila Grass
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Manila Grass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-11, with best performance in zones 9-10
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Establishment
4-6 weeksNewly planted sprigs or plugs develop roots and begin producing shoots. Growth is slow initially, with thin green shoots visible.
Water daily to keep soil consistently moist (not waterlogged). Avoid foot traffic. Apply starter fertilizer to encourage root development.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksShoots multiply and the grass fills in rapidly. Dense lateral growth creates a mat-like turf. Color deepens to rich green.
Reduce watering frequency as grass becomes established. Begin light fertilization. Maintain mowing height at 0.5-1 inch.
Maturation
Ongoing after 2-3 monthsThe lawn achieves full density with a fine, velvety texture. Root system is deep and extensive. Grass can handle increased wear.
Transition to regular maintenance mowing schedule. Fertilize 3-4 times per year during growing season. Water only during drought periods.
Dormancy
3-4 months (or none in zone 9-11)In cooler climates (zone 8b), grass may turn brown or dormant during winter months (November-March). In tropical zones, remains green year-round.
Reduce watering and fertilization. No mowing necessary. May overseed with cool-season grass in zone 8 for year-round color.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Apply miticide if severe damage appears; improve drainage to reduce mite pressure; maintain proper fertilization for plant vigor
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Maintain healthy lawn with proper mowing and watering; insecticide application for severe infestations; improve aeration
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Monitor regularly; apply insecticidal soap for minor infestations; ensure adequate watering to reduce stress
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Improve air circulation through aeration; avoid over-watering; apply fungicide if disease appears; ensure proper fertilization balance
Uses
Premium Lawn Turf
HouseholdManila grass creates an attractive, durable lawn ideal for residential landscapes, golf courses, and sports fields. Its fine texture and dense growth provide an elegant appearance while resisting wear and disease. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
HouseholdOnce established, Manila grass requires minimal supplemental watering, making it an excellent choice for water conservation landscapes and sustainable lawn management. [source]
Shade-Tolerant Ground Cover
HouseholdWhile it prefers sun, Manila grass performs better in partial shade than most warm-season grasses, making it suitable for landscapes with dappled or filtered sunlight. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeDense Zoysia turf provides shelter and foraging areas for beneficial insects, ground-nesting birds, and small mammals, supporting local ecosystem health. [source]
Harvest Tips
Zoysia is not harvested but maintained as a living lawn. Begin regular mowing once grass reaches 1.5-2 inches in height. Mow at 0.5-1 inch during active growing season. Core aerate annually in spring to improve soil structure and reduce thatch buildup.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Manila grass is named for Manila, the capital of the Philippines, where it is native and widely used as turf grass.
- 🌱 Zoysia matrella is extremely slow-growing compared to other warm-season grasses, but once established, it can live for 10+ years with minimal maintenance.
- 🌱 This grass is also known as 'manilagrass' or 'dwarf manilagrass' and is a favorite for putting greens at golf courses due to its fine texture and dense growth pattern.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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