Zoysiagrass Mite

What it looks like

Look for excessive tufting or rosetting where the grass blades bunch up, along with shortened, curled shoot tips. The mites themselves are too small to see, so you're really identifying the damage pattern rather than the pest itself.

Often mistaken for: Bermudagrass mite damage (very similar symptoms)

When it shows up in the Triangle

Shows up during the warm growing season and gets worse when the lawn is under drought stress.

Where you’ll see it

Affects zoysiagrass lawns specifically.

What you can do

• Water consistently so the lawn isn't drought-stressed
• Avoid letting zoysia dry out for long stretches during summer
• Keep thatch layer under control
• Mow at the proper height to reduce stress on the grass