Description of Carpet Grass

Physical Characteristics

• According to Clemson University Extension, carpet grass is similar in appearance to centipede grass and St. Augustine grass. It differs in color; carpet grass is lighter than the other two and has a more distinct leaf margin. It is a low-growing, creeping grass that is spread by stolons. Texas Cooperative Extension describes the overall appearance of carpet grass as similar to that of crabgrass.

Ideal Growing Regions

• According to Texas Cooperative Extension, carpet grass is a warm-season grass, can be established from seed or sprigs and is best grown in the lower and middle southern states. It is well suited for sandy, moist soil. Acidic soil, with a pH of 5 to 6, provides the best growing environment for carpet grass.

Uses

• Clemson University Extension recommends the grass for use in areas where quality is not the chief concern. Areas that receive high traffic but need low maintenance, such as parks, airports, roadsides and golf course roughs, are ideal uses for carpet grass, according to Texas Cooperative Extension.

Maintenance

• Because of the prolific seed heads the grass produces, carpet grass requires frequent mowing, about once a week, during its growing season. Texas Cooperative Extension recommends cutting carpet grass from 3/4 to 2 inches, depending on the use. Carpet grass may benefit from fertilizer, depending on how it is used. When used as a lawn or fairway, apply a nitrogen fertilizer in the late spring and early fall. Because carpet grass is not an especially drought-tolerant grass, it may need occasional watering during long, dry periods.