Effect of planting date and phosphorus fertilization on Prizm zoysiagrass establishment from sprigs

Abstract Zoysiagrass ( Zoysia spp. Willd.) is a popular warm‐season turfgrass in the transition zone and southern United States. It is known for its low input requirements and enhanced cold and shade tolerance compared to bermudagrass ( Cynodon spp.). However, the slow growth of zoysiagrass can hinder rapid establishment from sprigs. A field experiment was conducted in 2020 and 2021 to discern which planting date and phosphorus (P) fertilization application frequency hasten establishment of Prizm zoysiagrass ( Zoysia matrella L. Merr.) sprigs in the transition zone and southern United States. Four planting dates each year (April, May, June, and July) and three P fertilizer applications (10.6 kg P ha −1 every 2 or 4 weeks and a non‐treated control) were evaluated. Sprigs were planted at 109 m 3 ha −1 . Beginning 1 week after each planting date, turfgrass coverage was estimated weekly until plots reached 90% coverage. Prizm sprigs planted in July did not reach 90% coverage before entering winter dormancy. Additionally, sprigs planted in June only reached 90% coverage by the end of the growing season in 2021 (62 days), while sprigs planted in April required an average of 115 days to achieve 90% coverage. Prizm sprigs in the transition zone should be planted no later than May to ensure complete establishment in one season. Furthermore, establishment was hastened by P applications on 4‐week intervals similarly to 2‐week intervals, demonstrating that more frequent applications are unnecessary.