Introduction to the Comparison

Choosing between Nilgiri and Korean grass is one of the most common dilemmas for homeowners in India, especially in Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, and other North Indian climates. Both grasses look beautiful, but their price, maintenance, and long-term performance vary significantly.

So, which one is better for your garden?

Let’s compare them in-depth.

What Is Nilgiri Grass?

Nilgiri Grass is a hardy, fast-growing, natural lawn grass variety commonly used across India. It is known for:

• Medium-green colour

• Long leaves

• Affordable price

• High adaptability

Botanical Features

Nilgiri Grass has slightly broad blades and grows aggressively, making it good for quick lawn coverage.

Climate Suitability

• Thrives in hot and dry climates

• Ideal for North Indian summers

• Can tolerate moderate cold

Common Uses

• Farmhouses

• Public parks

• School and college lawns

• Budget-friendly home lawns

What Is Korean Grass?

Korean Grass (Zoysia Matrella) is a premium ornamental grass known for its soft texture and luxurious carpet-like appearance.

Botanical Features

• Very fine leaves

• Dense growth pattern

• Slow-growing

Climate Suitability

• Prefers humid to semi-humid climates

• Performs well in moderate temperatures

• Tolerates sunlight but not harsh extremes

Common Uses

• Premium residential lawns

• Hotel gardens

• Corporate lawns

• Home gardens requiring a “luxury look”

Nilgiri Grass vs Korean Grass – Price Comparison

Price per Square Foot in Delhi

Korean Grass can cost 3–4 times more than Nilgiri Grass.

Price in Other Cities

• Chandigarh: ₹6–₹8 (Nilgiri), ₹18–₹25 (Korean)

• Jaipur: ₹5–₹7 (Nilgiri), ₹15–₹20 (Korean)

• Lucknow: ₹6–₹8 (Nilgiri), ₹15–₹22 (Korean)

Why Is Korean Grass Costlier?

• Slow growth (takes longer to produce)

• High transportation & labour cost

• Premium ornamental look

• Needs careful installation

Appearance & Texture Comparison

Nilgiri Grass Look

• Medium green

• Long, thin blades

• Slightly rough texture

• Looks natural and vibrant

Korean Grass Look

• Very fine texture

• Carpet-like density

• Soft and lush

• Appears more “luxury” and uniform

Which Looks More Premium?

Korean Grass wins — it gives a golf-course type finish.

Growth Speed & Spreading Pattern

Nilgiri Grass Growth

• Fast-growing

• Covers empty patches quickly

• Needs frequent trimming

Korean Grass Growth

• Very slow growth

• Takes time to spread

• Requires precision care

Winner: Nilgiri for Speed

If you want a lawn to cover fast, Nilgiri Grass is better.

Watering Needs Comparison

Nilgiri Grass Water Requirement

• Medium water requirement

• Can survive mild drought

• Suitable for Indian summers

Korean Grass Water Requirement

• Requires consistent moisture

• Cannot tolerate long dry spells

• More water-dependent than Nilgiri

Which Saves More Water?

Nilgiri Grass uses significantly less water.

Maintenance Comparison

Mowing Frequency

• Nilgiri: Weekly trimming

• Korean: Twice a month

Fertilizer Needs

• Nilgiri: Moderate

• Korean: Requires high-quality fertilizers regularly

Pest & Disease Tolerance

• Nilgiri: Highly resistant

• Korean: Sensitive to fungal issues

Weed Resistance

• Nilgiri: Medium

• Korean: Very high (due to density)

Durability & Foot Traffic Handling

Nilgiri Grass

• Handles heavy footfall well

• Great for kids, pets, events

Korean Grass

• Does not tolerate heavy foot traffic

• Ideal for decorative areas only

Winner: Nilgiri Grass for durability.

Seasonal Performance

Nilgiri Grass

• Stays green in summers

• Slightly dull in extreme winters

• Recovers fast

Korean Grass

• Stays green in moderate temperatures

• Turns brown in very cold winters

• Slow recovery

Installation & Lawn Preparation

Soil Requirement

• Nilgiri: Grows in most soils

• Korean: Needs soft, fertile, well-drained soil

Slope & Drainage

• Nilgiri: Works everywhere

• Korean: Needs proper slope to avoid waterlogging

Rooting Time

• Nilgiri: 7–15 days

• Korean: 20–30 days

Pros & Cons of Each Grass

Nilgiri Grass Pros

• Affordable

• Fast-growing

• Good for heavy use

• Low maintenance

Nilgiri Grass Cons

• Slightly rough texture

• Not as premium-looking

Korean Grass Pros

• Very soft

• Extremely premium look

• Dense & carpet-like

• Great weed resistance

Korean Grass Cons

• High price

• Slow growth

• Not suitable for rough use

• Needs high care

Which Grass Should You Choose? (Expert Verdict)

Best for Budget Buyers – Nilgiri Grass

If you want a good-looking lawn at an affordable price with low maintenance, choose Nilgiri Grass.

Best for Premium Lawns – Korean Grass

If your focus is appearance and you don’t mind investing time & money, Korean Grass is unbeatable.

Best for Low Maintenance – Nilgiri Grass

It requires less care, less cost, and less watering.

Conclusion

Nilgiri and Korean Grass each have their unique strengths. Nilgiri is perfect for practical, durable, and budget-friendly lawns, while Korean Grass is ideal when you want a premium, lush, ornamental lawn. Your choice depends on your budget, maintenance ability, and how you plan to use your lawn.

FAQs

1. Which grass is best for Delhi weather?

Nilgiri Grass performs better due to heat tolerance.

2. Does Korean Grass require more water?

Yes, it needs consistent moisture.

3. Which grass looks more premium?

Korean Grass has a finer, carpet-like texture.

4. What is the price difference between the two?

Korean is 3–4 times costlier than Nilgiri.

5. Which grass is better for kids and pets?

Nilgiri Grass handles more foot traffic.