Empire Zoysia grass is a popular choice for home lawns, parks, and sports fields in Perth and across Australia due to its dense growth, fine texture, and tolerance to heat and drought. Its slow-growing habit and thick canopy make it perfect for creating a lush, low-maintenance lawn. However, even the toughest Zoysia needs proper nutrition to maintain a deep green colour, strong roots, and resilience against pests and diseases.
Choosing the right fertiliser is crucial to keep your Empire Zoysia lawn healthy all year round. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fertilising Empire Zoysia, including types, timing, ratios, tips, and frequently asked questions.
Why Fertiliser is Important for Empire Zoysia Grass
Empire Zoysia has unique nutritional requirements compared to other grasses:
- Moderate growth rate – it grows slower than Kikuyu or Buffalo grass, so excessive nitrogen can create thatch and leggy blades.
- Dense, fine blades – it requires nutrients that enhance colour and density rather than height.
- Stress tolerance – fertilisers help Zoysia cope with heat, drought, and heavy foot traffic.
Proper fertilisation improves:
- Root development and soil health
- Blade colour and density
- Resistance to diseases and pests
- Water efficiency and recovery after stress
Factors to Consider When Choosing Fertiliser
Before selecting a fertiliser, consider these key points:
- Soil Type
- Conduct a soil test to check pH, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) levels.
- Empire Zoysia prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0).
- Lawn Age
- Newly laid sod requires high phosphorus “starter” fertilisers to encourage root establishment.
- Established lawns benefit from slow-release nitrogen to maintain colour and density.
- Climate and Season in Perth
- Perth’s hot summers and mild winters mean fertilise primarily during active growth in spring and early autumn.
- Avoid heavy fertilisation in late autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.
- Lawn Goals
- Want a dark green lawn? Include iron in the fertiliser.
- Need stress resilience? Potassium-rich fertilisers support drought and heat tolerance.
Best Types of Fertiliser for Empire Zoysia
Empire Zoysia responds well to these fertiliser types:
1. Slow-Release Granular Fertilisers
- Provide nutrients over 6–8 weeks.
- Prevent rapid growth that leads to thatch.
- Ideal N-P-K ratios: 3-1-2, 10-10-10, or 15-0-15.
- Apply evenly using a spreader and water in well.
2. Liquid Fertilisers
- Excellent for colour and density boost.
- Can include chelated iron (2–3%) for deep green blades.
- Applied more frequently but in smaller doses.
- Hose-on liquid fertilisers ensure even coverage on dense turf.
3. Organic Fertilisers
- Poultry pellets, composted manures, and rock mineral blends improve soil structure and microbial activity.
- Slower nutrient release but enhance long-term soil health.
- Environmentally friendly and reduce chemical dependency.
Fertiliser Schedule for Empire Zoysia
A seasonal guide helps maintain a healthy lawn:
1. Spring (September – November)
- Begin fertilising after the first few mows.
- Use a starter fertiliser for new lawns, or a slow-release N-P-K for established lawns.
- Frequency: every 4–6 weeks.
2. Summer (December – February)
- Apply slow-release fertiliser lightly to maintain colour.
- Include iron if blades start fading.
- Avoid over-fertilising during extreme heat to prevent stress.
3. Autumn (March – May)
- Optional light feeding to maintain colour.
- Focus on potassium and micronutrients instead of nitrogen.
4. Winter (June – August)
- Minimal fertilisation is needed as growth slows naturally.
- Iron supplements can help prevent dullness.
Timing and Application Tips for Applying Fertiliser
- Apply fertiliser when grass soil is moist and the blades are actively growing. Mornings or late afternoons are the best times to fertilise to avoid heat stress.
- For granular fertiliser application:
Apply evenly across the lawn using a spreader.
Water in thoroughly so nutrients can reach the root zone. - For liquid fertiliser application:
Apply according to the product label, usually with a hose on or sprayer.
Frequent light applications can be more effective than heavy doses. - Do not apply fertiliser immediately before or during very hot days. This can lead to fertiliser burn and stress the lawn.
Recommended Best Fertilisers for Empire Zoysia in Perth
1. Eco Prime Emerald NPK Fertiliser
Type: Micro mineral lawn fertiliser
Benefits: Balanced nutrients for leaf colour, root strength and stress tolerance Soil microbes support healthy soil biology and improved nutrient uptake
Eco Prime Emerald is designed to supply a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium for overall turf health. Beneficial microbes improve soil structure and help your Empire Zoysia use nutrients more efficiently. This makes it suitable for both established lawns and ongoing maintenance.
2. Eco Prime Purple Fertiliser
Type: All round fertiliser with added micronutrients
Benefits: Promotes root development and general lawn strength Improves resilience to stress and supports soil health
Eco Prime Purple includes nutrients that help strengthen roots and support healthy growth. It is especially effective when lawns have been under stress or need revitalisation because it enhances soil nutrient availability.
3. Eco Prime Red Fertiliser
Type: Biologically activated fertiliser blend
Benefits Encourages strong root development Improves lawn recovery after wear or stress Boosts soil biology
Eco Prime Red delivers essential nutrients in a biologically active form that supports the root zone. This helps new lawns establish more effectively and existing lawns recover faster from wear or environmental stress.
4. Baileys 3.1.1 Plus Fertiliser
Type: Micro granular fertiliser
Benefits: Balanced NPK for sustained growth Helps maintain deep green colour and density Includes wetting agent to improve moisture distribution
Baileys 3.1.1 Plus feeds lawns slowly and evenly. It is a good choice when you want consistent colour and density without rapid vertical growth. The built in wetting agent also helps soils that struggle with water penetration.
5. Organic 2000 Multigrow
Type: Pelletised organic fertiliser
Benefits Improves soil biology and structure Supports long term soil health Enhances moisture retention and root development
Organic 2000 Multigrow is a certified organic fertilizer that slowly releases nutrients while improving soil structure and microbial activity. This organic approach is great for building long term fertility and reducing reliance on synthetic feeds.
Need Help With Your Turf or Fertiliser Choices?
If you’re unsure which fertiliser is best for your Empire Zoysia lawn or need guidance for maintaining healthy turf in Perth, The Turf Man can help. Our experts provide advice on:
- Fertiliser types and schedules
- Soil health and pH testing
- Lawn maintenance and pest management
Contact The Turf Man today to ensure your lawn stays lush, green, and resilient all year round.
Common FAQs About Fertilising Empire Zoysia
How often should I fertilise Empire Zoysia?
Typically 2 to 4 times per year during active growth using slow-release fertilisers
Can I use high-nitrogen fertilisers?
Avoid fast-release, high-nitrogen fertilisers as they can cause thatch, weak growth, and disease
Do I need iron?
Iron helps maintain a rich green lawn without excessive vertical growth
What about newly laid sod?
Apply a high-phosphorus starter fertiliser under the turf. Wait 4 to 6 weeks before adding nitrogen-rich fertilisers
Can I fertilise in winter?
Only light applications if necessary since Empire Zoysia slows growth naturally
Is organic fertiliser effective?
Organic options like pelletised poultry manure improve soil health and support long-term lawn resilience
