How to establish grass?

Has anybody in northern New England tried growing Zoysia grass?

• I live in NH and I'm tempted to try it. It's advertised as being cold resistant to 30 below zero. I'm just curious as to how long it takes to establish itself (using plugs or seeds...I'd love to hear from people who have done both). Also, I've heard that it turns an awful brown color when the weather turns cold. How ugly is it? Is it worth it? I'd appreciate only hearing from people who have actual experience with the grass. I've read all the documentation and I've spoken with the manufacturer of the grass plugs, but I'm looking for real-life advice from people who have used it. Thanks so much! :)

• Answer:

  I tried a few plugs in my back yard (Massachusetts) and it looked great, tough to walk on, but in September as the night got colder the zoysia went dormant and looked like a brown hay field. It stayed green until the colder nights and only did well for about 2 to 3 months.(June, July and August). I would say it's best to leave it for the Floridians.