Q: I’ve just had a septic system installed and my yard is trashed. I ultimately want zoysia and will be using seed. It will be the end of August before I can plant. Am I correct in thinking that it will be too late for zoysia seed?

A: I think you’re right: the tail end of August is mighty late to plant slow-spreading zoysia seed. I’d plant annual ryegrass in September, then spray it with glyphosate in late April to kill the rye. You can then till everything in early May, rake smooth, and spread ‘Zenith’ zoysia seed. Don’t skip the tilling; you can’t get good germination without disturbing the soil first.