How to Get the Maximum Growth Out of Your Centipede Grass

Centipede grass is a low-maintenance, warm-season grass with a coarse texture. Because it grows slowly and remains relatively short, it requires less mowing than other turf grasses, earning it the nickname "the lazy man's grass." The most important aspect of centipede grass care is fertilizing. Because centipede grass isn't as richly colored as other turf grasses, gardeners tend to overfertilize it to correct its color. Too much fertilizer, however, can kill the grass or weaken it to the point where it can be invaded by pests and disease.

Things You'll Need

• Fertilizer
• Rotary mower

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Avoid fertilizing or liming centipede grass. Test the soil every spring, and if it is deficient in nutrients and you must add fertilizer, use 15-0-15. Apply the fertilizer in June, at no more than 2 lbs. per 1000 square feet of lawn.

   • 2

     Water the centipede grass only when it shows signs of stress, such as wilting or browning. Turf grass specialists with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System suggest that you infrequently water deeply, to 6 inches.

   • 3

     Mow the centipede grass to 1 to 1 1/2 inches using a sharp-bladed rotary mower.