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Centipede Lawn Care in Florida

Centipede grass is the most common residential grass in the Florida panhandle. The light green, coarse-textured grass grows slowly and does not require as much maintenance as other grasses. For this reason, centipede grass is also called "lazy man's grass."
  1. Time Frame

    • Cut centipede grass at the recommended mowing height of 1 to 2 inches once every 7 to 14 days. In spring, apply a complete fertilizer at a rate of ½ to 1 lb. of nitrogen per 1000 square feet of lawn space. Provide the lawn with ¾-inch water when the grass blades begin to fold, wilt or turn a blue-gray color.

    Warning

    • Centipede grass is susceptible to pests and diseases. Insects and nematodes cause damage to the root. The fungal diseases brown patch and dollar spot cause straw-colored spots on the lawn. Centipede grass decline presents yellow rings on the lawn and inevitably kills the grass.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Keep centipede grass healthy with the best lawn care practices. Check and adjust the soil pH if it is above 6.5. Remove excessive thatch to promote new grass growth.