The Zeon Zoysia cultivar, of the species Zoysia matrella, is known in various tropical regions for its superior aesthetic and functional qualities, thanks to its unique characteristics and adaptability. Originating from a collection of plants in Kobe, Japan, it was discovered by David Doguet through meticulous selection. This distinct variety was subsequently cloned and patented under the name Zeon.
Zeon Zoysia is characterized by a stoloniferous and rhizomatous growth habit, meaning it spreads horizontally both above and below the soil surface. This facilitates its vegetative propagation and makes it an ideal choice for ground cover under various conditions. It produces many stolons, with leaf blades about 2.36 inches (6 cm) long and 0.16 inches (4 mm) wide, and short internodes, measuring about 0.83 inches (2.1 cm) in length. This compact growth contributes to the formation of a dense, finely textured lawn. The plant reaches a mature height between 2.36 and 4.72 inches (6 to 12 cm), with a medium dark green color that distinguishes it from Emerald Zoysia grass (Zoysia japonica).
In landscaping and sports fields, Zeon Zoysia offers several advantages. Its deep green hue and the dense carpet it forms make it a frequent choice in various landscaping projects. Its resilience and visual beauty were demonstrated at the Olympic Golf Course in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, in 2016. This grass provides a fine, durable surface, ideal for golf courses and areas of intense foot traffic, as long as the frequency is not too high. Additionally, its low need for trimming and maintenance makes it an ecological and economical choice. It adapts well to different types of soil, even the sandiest, and has a low need for irrigation and fertilization, also inhibiting the proliferation of weeds due to its dense growth.
Compared to other Zoysia species, Zeon Zoysia stands out for its exceptional tolerance to shade, drought, and salinity, the upright posture of its leaves, and an extraordinarily attractive visual appearance. It maintains its color during the fall and winter and quickly recovers color in the spring. Additionally, it produces less thatch compared to other Zoysia cultivars. Its texture is also considered softer, suitable for walking barefoot, compared to Emerald Grass, which is rougher.
An interesting curiosity about Zeon Zoysia is its allelopathic property. It releases substances into the soil that reduce the germination and growth of other plants, contributing to its ability to suppress weeds. However, these compounds become inert in moist soil conditions within 15 to 30 days after the removal of the grass.
Regarding maintenance, Zeon Zoysia requires regular care to maintain its appearance and health. Although it has a lower need for trimming compared to emerald grass, maintaining a consistent cutting regime is important to ensure a compact and healthy lawn. Irrigation should be moderate, adapting to weather and soil conditions. Fertilization can also be minimal, focusing on maintaining soil health and plant nutrition.
The cultivation requirements of Zeon Zoysia include choosing a location with good drainage and adequate exposure to direct sunlight, although it tolerates partial shade well. The soil should be properly prepared and leveled before planting to ensure the healthy establishment of the grass. It adapts to different types of soil, from sandy to clayey, with acidic to alkaline pH, and even high salinity, as found in coastal regions. However, adequate drainage is important, avoiding prolonged waterlogged periods. Suitable for tropical regions, excess moisture and cold are harmful to Zeon Grass, and promote the appearance of diseases, such as infection by Rhizoctonia.
The installation of a Zeon Zoysia lawn is usually done through plugs, sods, rolls, or sprigs. Plugs take 8 to 24 weeks to establish with irrigation, while sods and rolls can establish in 1 to 2 weeks. Depending on the density used, propagation by sprigs can take more than a year, but is effective for covering large areas. As a patented cultivar, the production and sale of Zeon Zoysia are strictly controlled and certified to ensure its quality and uniformity, with regular inspections of the production fields.
