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Tenacity is a selective, systemic herbicide made by Syngenta, used for controlling both pre- and post-emergent broadleaf weeds and certain grasses in turf areas. Its active ingredient, mesotrione, works by blocking an enzyme essential for chlorophyll production, which disrupts photosynthesis and leads to plant death. This makes it effective for maintaining lawns by targeting unwanted vegetation without harming certain desirable grasses, though its impact varies by grass type.
According to the Tenacity herbicide label (Tenacity Herbicide Label 2020), Zoysia Grass is sensitive to the product, meaning it can be injured or killed if sprayed. The label advises avoiding application on Zoysia unless control or injury is tolerable, suggesting it’s not safe for use on lawns where Zoysia is the desired grass but can be used to eliminate it in areas where it’s unwanted.
You might consider using Tenacity to kill Zoysia Grass if it’s invading other turf types or areas where it’s not wanted, such as in agricultural settings or different lawn varieties. However, for maintaining a Zoysia lawn, alternatives are recommended to avoid damage.
This section delves deeper into the relationship between Tenacity herbicide and Zoysia Grass, providing a detailed analysis for those seeking a thorough understanding. It covers the characteristics of both, their interaction, and practical considerations for lawn care, ensuring a complete picture for homeowners and professionals alike.
Tenacity, produced by Syngenta, is a selective, systemic herbicide designed for both pre- and post-emergence control of over 46 broadleaf weed and grass species. Its active ingredient, mesotrione, is derived from a compound found in the bottlebrush plant (Callistemon citrinus) and works by inhibiting an enzyme crucial for chlorophyll production. This disruption of photosynthesis causes treated plants to turn white and eventually die, making it effective for weed control in various turf types.
The herbicide is noted for its “Reduced Risk” status by the EPA, attributed to its low use rates and favorable toxicity profile compared to other herbicides. It can be applied to established or newly seeded turf, offering flexibility for lawn care. However, its effectiveness and safety depend on the grass species, with specific warnings for certain types like Zoysia Grass.
Zoysia Grass is a warm-season grass native to Asia, introduced to the United States in the late 19th century. It’s known for its dense, durable growth, making it a popular choice for lawns, golf courses, and athletic fields, especially in southern and transition zones. It thrives in heat and drought, with low water and maintenance needs, and can tolerate some shade, though it prefers full sun.
There are several species, including Zoysia japonica (coarser texture, better cold tolerance) and Zoysia matrella (finer texture, improved shade tolerance), each suited to different environments. Its ability to form a thick carpet helps outcompete weeds, but this also means it can become invasive in areas where it’s not desired.
Zoysia Grass is sensitive to the product. This sensitivity implies that applying Tenacity can lead to injury or death of the grass, as it disrupts photosynthesis in susceptible plants. The label advises, “Bentgrass, Poa annua, kikuyugrass, zoysiagrass, seashore paspalum and bermudagrass are sensitive to Tenacity applications. Avoid spraying these turf types unless control and/or injury can be tolerated. Maintain a five-foot buffer between treated areas and sensitive turf types.”
This means Tenacity can kill Zoysia Grass, particularly when used to control it as a weed in areas where it’s unwanted. However, for lawns where Zoysia is the desired grass, using Tenacity is not recommended due to potential damage. The label also suggests precautions like avoiding overspray and using a surfactant to enhance effectiveness, which can increase the risk to Zoysia if not applied carefully.
Research and user reports, such as those found on lawn care forums, indicate that Tenacity’s effectiveness on Zoysia Grass aligns with its label, causing visible damage like whitening of leaves, which can lead to death with repeated applications. For instance, it’s noted that Zoysia Grass may require multiple treatments for control, similar to other sensitive grasses, but this can set back the lawn if Zoysia is the intended turf.
In contexts where Zoysia Grass is a weed, such as invading cool-season lawns or non-turf areas, Tenacity can be a viable option. However, its use is controversial in mixed turf scenarios, as it may harm desirable grasses nearby, requiring careful application and buffer zones.
If Tenacity is not suitable, alternatives include non-selective herbicides like glyphosate, though these will kill all vegetation, necessitating reseeding or sodding. Cultural practices, such as proper mowing and fertilization, can help maintain a competitive lawn, reducing Zoysia invasion. Mechanical removal is another option for small areas, though labor-intensive.
For using Tenacity on Zoysia Grass, best practices include:
Homeowners should assess their lawn’s composition before applying Tenacity. If Zoysia is the desired grass, alternatives should be explored to avoid damage. For instance, in regions where Zoysia is common, like the southern U.S., ensuring the herbicide is applied only to unwanted patches can prevent costly lawn recovery. Additionally, maintaining buffer zones and cleaning sprayers thoroughly after use can reduce unintended effects on sensitive species.
| Turf Type | Sensitivity to Tenacity | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Bluegrass | Safe | Can be used at or prior to seeding |
| Tall Fescue | Safe | Suitable for established and new lawns |
| Zoysia Grass | Sensitive | Avoid unless control/injury tolerable |
| Bermudagrass | Sensitive | Not recommended, risk of damage |
| Centipedegrass | Safe | Can be used, low risk of harm |
This table highlights the varying responses of different grasses to Tenacity, emphasizing Zoysia’s sensitivity and the need for caution.
In conclusion, Tenacity herbicide can kill Zoysia Grass due to its sensitivity to mesotrione, making it a potential tool for control in unwanted areas. However, for maintaining Zoysia lawns, it’s advisable to explore alternatives to prevent damage. Understanding the context, reading the label, and following best practices ensure effective and safe use, balancing lawn care needs with environmental considerations.
