When choosing the right type of grass for your lawn, there are many factors to consider. Two of the most popular types of grasses are Zorro zoysia and Zeon zoysia. These grasses are known for their ability to thrive in various climates and their resistance to pests and diseases.
However, there are some critical differences between these two types of grasses. Zorro zoysia is a slower-growing grass, requiring less mowing and fertilizer than Zeon zoysia. Additionally, Zorro zoysia has a denser growth habit, making it more resistant to traffic and wear. On the other hand, Zeon zoysia is a faster-growing grass that is less tolerant of shade.
With that being said, no one grass type is better than the other. The best grass for your lawn depends on your specific needs and preferences. Let’s compare zorro vs zeon zoysia.
Physical Characteristics of Zorro and Zeon Zoysia
Zorro and Zeon are two types of grasses that share many physical traits. Both are relatively tall, with Zorro averaging about 2 feet in height and Zeon reaching 3 to 4 feet. Both types of grass also have a high density of blades, ranging in color from green to blue-green.
If you look closer, zorro has a beautiful dark green color compared to Zeon’s lighter shade of green. Zorro blades are wider than Zeon; however, both have a soft texture, are considered actual “bare-foot grass” and are best used in parks.
In terms of flowers, Zorro grass produces small, brown spikelets forming clusters, while Zeon grass has more prominent, more showy panicles ranging in color from white to purple.
Overall, Zorro and Zeon grasses are similar in appearance, but the slightly taller stature and more colorful flowers of Zeon grass make it the more popular choice for landscaping purposes. Zorro grasses are the best choice if you plan to use them for commercial lawns and golf courses.
Sunlight Requirements of Zorro and Zeon Zoysia
Both are known for their ability to grow in various lighting conditions. If you plan to install grasses in partially shaded areas in your home or property, it is recommended to use a Zorro because it is more tolerant of shade.
Regarding temperature, Zeon zoysia is more heat-tolerant than the other types of Zoysia, which is why it is best on beaches, resorts, and poolside areas.
Zeon zoysia can withstand temperatures of up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while Zorro zoysia begins to show signs of stress at around 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements of Zorro and Zeon Zoysia
Both zoysias are both relatively tolerant of different soil types. However, Zeon zoysia is more tolerant of poor drainage than Zorro zoysia. As a result, Zeon zoysia is a good choice for areas prone to flooding or standing water like sports fields and playgrounds.
Irrigation Requirements
They have different irrigation requirements. Zorro is a slower-growing grass, which means that it requires less water than Zeon. Too much water can lead to fungal growth and disease in Zorro zoysia.
On the other hand, Zeon is a faster-growing grass that requires more water. Although it requires more watering, this grass can also withstand periods of drought better than other grasses. This makes it an ideal choice if you live in a place with extended summer seasons.
Mowing Requirements
Zorro zoysia is a slower-growing grass; experts suggest mowing it every seven to fifteen days. Additionally, Zorro zoysia has a denser growth habit, so you can cut it at a higher setting without losing its thick, lush appearance.
On the other hand, Zeon zoysia is a faster-growing grass that requires more mowing, from five to ten days.
Your local landscape artist will also require both zoysias a height of .75 inches up to 1.5 inches to prevent them from getting too leggy. You can achieve this by using a rotary owner or a reel moving.
Fertilizer Requirements of Zorro and Zeon Zoysia
Both kinds of grass require a pre-emergent type of fertilizer during the spring to prevent weeds from germinating.
Pest and Disease Resistance of Zorro and Zeon Zoysia
Zorro zoysia’s most common pest attacks include chinch bugs, sod webworms, and armyworms. Zorro zoysia is susceptible to diseases like brown patches, dollar spots, and red thread.
Zeon zoysia is less susceptible to pests and diseases than Zorro zoysia. However, Zeon zoysia is not entirely immune to pests and diseases. The most common problems that attack Zeon zoysia include chinch bugs, sod webworms, and armyworms. Zeon zoysia is susceptible to diseases like brown patches, dollar spots, and red thread.
Zorro vs Zeon Zoysia: Final Thoughts
Zorro and Zeon zoysia are both good choices for a new lawn, but they have different strengths. Zorro is better in shaded areas, while Zeon is more heat-tolerant. Zorro requires less water than Zeon, but Zeon can withstand periods of drought better.
At the end of the day, the choice of grass comes down to personal preference and of course, your lawn’s particular needs. More often than not, both types of grass will perform well on most lawns.