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EMPIRE Turf

    A Zoysia with Royal Qualities

    In the world of turfgrasses, Zoysia varieties have earned a reputation for their lush appearance, exceptional durability, and adaptability to various climates. EMPIRE Turf, a relatively new Zoysia cultivar, stands out among its peers, boasting an impressive combination of characteristics that make it a superior choice for lawns, golf courses, and other landscaped areas.

    Origins and Characteristics

    EMPIRE Turf is a Zoysia japonica cultivar developed by researchers at Texas A&M University. It was selected for its superior performance in terms of density, texture, color, and disease resistance. EMPIRE Turf is a warm-season grass, meaning it thrives in warmer climates and goes dormant in cooler temperatures.

    Key Features and Benefits

    • Exceptional Density: EMPIRE Turf forms a dense, carpet-like turf that creates a luxurious and inviting feel underfoot. This dense growth habit also helps to crowd out weeds, reducing the need for herbicides.
    • Fine Texture: The fine blades of EMPIRE Turf create a smooth and uniform surface that is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to walk on.
    • Rich Green Color: EMPIRE Turf boasts a rich, dark green color that enhances the beauty of any landscape. This vibrant color is maintained throughout the growing season, even under stressful conditions.
    • Improved Cold Tolerance: Compared to other Zoysia varieties, EMPIRE Turf exhibits improved cold tolerance, extending its growing season and making it suitable for a wider range of climates.
    • Rapid Establishment: EMPIRE Turf establishes quickly from sod or plugs, allowing you to enjoy a lush lawn sooner.
    • Wear Tolerance: This grass variety is highly wear-tolerant, able to withstand heavy foot traffic, pet activity, and recreational use. It recovers quickly from wear and tear, maintaining its pristine appearance.
    • Drought Tolerance: EMPIRE Turf exhibits excellent drought tolerance, requiring less frequent watering than other grass varieties. This makes it a water-wise choice for regions with limited water resources or during periods of drought.
    • Shade Tolerance: While it prefers full sun, EMPIRE Turf exhibits moderate shade tolerance, making it suitable for areas with partial shade.
    • Pest and Disease Resistance: EMPIRE Turf has shown good resistance to common turfgrass pests and diseases, minimizing the need for chemical treatments.

    Applications of EMPIRE Turf

    EMPIRE Turf’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications:

    • Lawns: Creates a luxurious and resilient lawn that enhances the beauty and functionality of residential and commercial landscapes.
    • Golf Courses: Provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing playing surface for fairways, tees, and roughs.
    • Sports Fields: Offers a wear-tolerant and resilient turf for sports fields and recreational areas.
    • Parks and Green Spaces: Creates attractive and low-maintenance green spaces in parks, schools, and other public areas.
    • Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and embankments.

    Establishing and Maintaining EMPIRE Turf

    • Establishment: EMPIRE Turf can be established from sod or plugs. Proper soil preparation, including tilling, amending, and leveling, is crucial for successful establishment.
    • Mowing: Mow EMPIRE Turf at a height of 1-2 inches, using a sharp mower blade to prevent scalping.
    • Watering: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance.
    • Fertilization: Fertilize EMPIRE Turf with a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in the spring and fall.
    • Weed Control: EMPIRE Turf’s dense growth habit helps to suppress weeds, but occasional weed control measures may be necessary.
    • Aeration: Aerate the lawn annually to improve drainage and air circulation in the soil.

    Benefits Beyond Aesthetics

    EMPIRE Turf offers benefits beyond its aesthetic appeal:

    • Water Conservation: Its drought tolerance reduces water consumption, conserving precious water resources.
    • Reduced Chemical Use: Its pest and disease resistance minimizes the need for chemical treatments, protecting the environment and human health.
    • Improved Soil Health: Its dense root system improves soil structure and health, promoting a thriving ecosystem within the soil.

    Conclusion

    EMPIRE Turf is a superior turfgrass choice for those seeking a combination of beauty, durability, and sustainability. Its exceptional density, fine texture, rich green color, and adaptability to various conditions make it an ideal option for lawns, golf courses, and other landscaped areas. By choosing EMPIRE Turf, you can create a vibrant and environmentally friendly outdoor space that enhances the beauty and functionality of your property.