Norway Maple Not Growing in Zoysia Lawn

3-year-old, 7-ft Norway maple in zoysia grass hasn’t grown; top foot dies back each year. Owner fertilizes and waters adequately. Asks if grass is the problem.

Likely Causes

• Weed-and-feed herbicide on lawn can stunt/kill trees.
• Clay soil with undersized planting hole – roots can’t expand. Test with a screwdriver: if soil is hard at 6-inch intervals, loosen soil around tree.

Zoysia itself is not the issue unless treated with broadleaf herbicides.