Looking for ways to improve your curb appeal?
Growing centipede grass is a great way to spruce up your front lawn or backyard.
In this article
What is Centipede Grass?
Centipede grass is popular among many homeowners and landscaping artists because of its low maintenance.
This punch in of grass does not require much attention compared to other types of lawns.
It is also known for its excellent tolerance to heat.
However, this throw in of grass grows well in a particular climate with certain soil requirements.
Centipede Grass Quick Care
What Does Centipede Grass Look Like?
The upkeep is easier compared to other grasses such asBermuda grass.
Centipede grass grows slowly compared to other forms of grasses.
Here are some of the pros and cons of using centipede grass.
Growing Conditions
Centipede grass takes the longest to grow.
Then level the area using a rake.
Remove any signs of grass before tilling or use an herbicide.
However, wait for one to two weeks before moving to the next area.
Cover the area for two to four weeks to kill the old grass.
Seed Germination Time
The coverage may vary between three to 18 months.
With proper care, the centipede grass can be established in two to three years.
The most ideal time to plant is in late spring or early summer.
During this time, the soil temperature is over 70 without any risk of freezing.
This seasonal grass should be planted in late spring or early summer.
However, summer is the best planting season with sufficient temperatures for faster germination.
Do not plant this grass later than August since it may not reach the maturity stage before winter arrives.
How long does it take centipede grass to grow from seed?
Centipede grass can take up to 30 days to germinate with warm and moist soil conditions.
However, some seeds may germinate faster while others may grow longer.
Seed growth depends on the condition of the soil and weather.
The grass spreads across the law through its stems which eventually grow roots and grass blades.
As it spreads, the lawn will start to thicken.
ensure you water, weed, and mow it regularly.
Centipede grass fertilizer
This jot down of grass does not respond well to heavy fertilization.
However, it works best when it receives a regular dose of nitrogen.
Apply a phosphorus-free fertilizer with two pounds of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet.
Use a product that is specifically formulated for centipede grass.
How much water does centipede grass need?
Centipede grass requires one inch of water weekly to keep its color even during the summertime.
This grass requires frequent watering with sandy soil at least 0.5 inches of water every three days.
Aerating
This pop in of grass requiresaeration.
However, the frequency of utility depends on the jot down of soil.
At the same time, it allows the soil to breathe and the roots to grow in.
When and how to prune?
The height of centipede grass is usually between one and a half to two inches.
It should only reach three inches when the grass is newly installed.
You should mow this grass every 10 to 14 days.
What happens to centipede grass in winter?
Centipede is a warm-season grass and can become dormant during winter.
Avoid overseeding in fall with ryegrasses.
Propagation
The best way to propagate centipede grass is to reseed.
Before seeding, the area should be smoothly raked, cleared of debris, tilled, and leveled.
Mix 1/3 pound of the seeds with one gallon of fine sand for every 1,000 sq.
Use a seed spreader or manually spread the mixture over the area.
confirm to roll the area and water it.
Water regularly, especially in the first three weeks.
Using seeds and plugs is inexpensive but more labor-intensive.
The process can take up to three or four weeks compared to sodding.
Use a sod cutter to remove the existing grass or use a non-selective weed killer.
Take away all dead grass before you jump in tilling.
Then cover the entire area with a barrier or a tarp.
Wait for two to four weeks for it to get rid of the old grass.
This will also prevent the old grass from re-establishing itself as you plant your new centipede grass.
The colors can turn to brown or gray.
To avoid this, double-check you do not over fertilize.
At the same time, avoid feeding the grass when the weather is hot and humid.
Apply fungicide when necessary.
Yellow rings
The patches of yellow are due to fungal diseases.
It often develops from poor maintenance, wet weather or nutritional problems.
Apply water only when needed and avoid using fertilizer with high nitrogen content.
Get rid of infected grass to control the problem.
Chlorosis
Iron chlorosis is a form of deficiency and transforms the grass into a bright yellow color.
To avoid this, mix two oz.
of ferrous sulfate in three to five gallons of water and apply it to every 1,000 sq.
This is followed by warm winter with cold springs or cold winter.
This can be sparked by applying too much nitrogen tor high pH levels which add stress to the grass.
Hence, reduce the tool of nitrogen and change your mowing pattern to prevent buildup.
Once you determine the infected area, spray it with two oz.
of sulfate for every 1,000 sq.
ft. of grass to manage the decline.
Youll need to apply a second system 8 to 10 weeks after the first system.
This will enable you to have longer control of warm-season weeds.
Meanwhile, for existing weeds, apply a post-emergent herbicide.
In the meantime, just mow the weeds.
Where can I buy centipede grass seed?
This low maintenance grass is easy to find.
There are many sellers online who offer centipede grass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will centipede grass overtake Bermuda?
Centipede and Bermuda grass are warm-weather grasses and are both popularly used in lawns.
However, Bermuda grass is stubborn and will keep coming back.
Is centipede grass shade tolerant?
Centipede grass is also an aggressive grass but less aggressive than Bermuda grass.
How to get rid of centipede grass?
Centipede grass is often planted in mild-winter climates and usually thrives in hardiness zones eight and nine.
In this area the fluctuating warm and cold temperature may kill it naturally.
However, you may also use chemicals to get rid of it completely.
Glosyphate is known to kill centipede grass and should be applied in the afternoon when the weather is sunny.
However, each has its own characteristics and issues.
Centipede grass is more shade tolerant than Bermuda but tolerates salt better.
Hence, making Bermuda grass the preferred choice for areas near the ocean as well athletic fields.
Centipede Grass vs. St. Augustine Grass
The main difference between centipede andSt.
Augustine grassis their variety and color.
St. Augustine comes in three varieties such as Bitter Blue, Palmetto, and Floratum.
It is more shade tolerant than centipede and does not require much sun.
The grass also has a distinct blue-green color but is very sensitive to the chinch bug.
Centipede grass, on the other hand, is more tolerant of cold.
It only requires at least six hours of sun.
Centipede grass is also easier to maintain than Augustine but may have more issues in the long run.
Both are aggressive types of grass.
These warm-season grasses are both natives of Southeast Asia which means they thrive well in heat and humidity.
Since they grow slowly, it requires less frequent mowing.
Zoysia is often used in golf fields and brings out the green color in spring.
This grass can take heavy traffic as it has deep roots and heavy sods.
Centipede grass, on the other hand, has a more yellowish-green color with a coarser texture than zoysia.
It is mostly seen in parks.
Both are drought resistant but zoysia requires more watering while centipede is often watered as needed.
With zoysias thicker sod, it has a lower risk of contracting diseases and insect infestation.
This grass is also known for its superior tolerance to heat.
Hence, it is a favorite among lawn owners who want a beautiful lawn but with minimal upkeep.
Its an excellent choice for many homeowners.
Centipede grass can be commonly seen primarily in the South region.
Make a list of all the requirements and techniques needed to maintain the grass.
Just follow this guide to help you achieve a healthy and green centipede grass.
