Centipede Lawn Care Tips for 2023

What is Centipede Grass?

Centipede grass is a type of warm-season grass that is common in the southeastern US. It is a low-maintenance grass that is ideal for homeowners who want a lush lawn without the hassle of intensive care. Centipede grass has a bright green color, is drought-tolerant, and grows slowly.

Feeding

Centipede grass needs to be fertilized twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. The best fertilizer for centipede grass is a slow-release fertilizer with a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid fertilizers with high amounts of nitrogen, as they can burn the grass and cause it to become dry and brittle.

Watering

Centipede grass does not require a lot of water and can survive on as little as one inch of water per week. Watering your centipede grass deeply once a week is the best way to ensure the grass stays healthy. Try to water your lawn in the early morning so the grass can absorb the water before the heat of the day.

Mowing

Mowing your centipede grass is an important part of keeping it looking its best. Centipede grass should be mowed to a height of 1.5 to 2 inches. To prevent scalping, make sure your mower blade is sharp and only mow when the grass is dry. It is also important to avoid mowing too often, as this can stress the grass and lead to disease.

Pest Control

Centipede grass is relatively pest-free, but it can be prone to certain diseases, such as brown patch and gray leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, it is important to keep your lawn healthy with proper fertilization, mowing, and watering. If pests do become a problem, a professional lawn care service can help identify and treat the problem.