How to Maintain Centipede Grass
Centipede grass came to the United States from South China at the turn of the 20th century. It's a slow-growing species that is easy to maintain. It has a medium texture and lime green color, which makes it a beautiful addition to the landscape. Centipede grass grows best in full sunlight. Preferred soils have a pH of 5 to 6. Even though it's low-maintenance, the grass benefits from some attention. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Water centipede grass to keep it green all summer. Even though it can handle droughts, it may turn brown if ignored. Give it water as needed to green it back up. During dry conditions, water it deeply once a day.
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Mow it with sharp blades. Dull blades will chew the grass and make it unhealthy. Avoid mowing during drought because this will make the grass turn colors. Cut centipede grass 1 1/2 to 2 inches tall.
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Apply a fertilizer that is labeled for use on centipede grass. The species is lime green in color and should not be dark green. As opposed to a nitrogen-heavy food, use one in the spring that is made for centipede grass. It should have a ratio of 15-0-15. In the autumn, apply winterizer fertilizer to feed the roots during the dormant season. Follow the package directions.
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Kill insects with liquid or granular insecticide. There are two that can effect centipedegrass: chinch bugs feed above ground on the blades and grub worms feed on the roots underground. Check with a garden center for the best treatment in your area.
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Control weeds. Use a pre-emergent weed killer in early spring and fall. It will targets crab grass and broad leaf weeds before they ruin the appearance of your lawn. Read the label for directions. Centipede is a domineering grass type and usually it will choke out most weeds.
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Tips & Warnings
Always water the lawn after applying fertilizer. This will help the fertilizer get to the roots.
Test the soil pH if you have trouble growing your lawn.
Avoid fertilizing centipede grass when it's dormant because you may injure the grass.
Do not use more fertilizer than recommended. This will hurt the blades.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
