Fall Sodding in North Texas: St. Augustine vs. Zoysia—Timing and Variety Matter

In Zone 8 (North Texas), you can sod St. Augustine or Zoysia in fall—if temperatures stay 80–90°F for weeks. Roots will establish, but top growth waits for spring.

St. Augustine is a solid all-around choice. For Zoysia, pick cold-tolerant varieties like Meyer or Emerald (Zoysia japonica) if you’re near New Mexico. Z. matrella and tenuifolia are less hardy.

If winter stays mild, you can fertilize Zoysia lightly (0.5–1 lb N/1,000 sq ft) through winter. But check sod availability—farms may not cut in fall. Your landscaper’s hesitation might be supply, not science.