Brown spots in centipede grass are commonly caused by cold weather stunning the grass. Centipede grass is an annual turf grass that thrives in warmer climates in the Southern U.S. Mowing centipede grass to a height of 1 to 1-½ inches is ideal for optimal growth. Longer lengths will allow the rhizomes to grow above the soil, causing damage to the grass.
Rake away and discard dead grass from the browned areas.
Turn the soil where the centipede grass was removed.
Apply a starter fertilizer with a nutrient base of 5-0-15 to the soil, following the package directions.
Apply centipede grass seed evenly over the fertilized soil. Press the seeds into the soil by hand. Lay the seed as early as March and as late as July for best results.
Water the seeds generously, keeping the soil moist but not soggy, to promote germination of the seeds.
Continue to keep the soil moist, watering daily, until the seedlings are 3 inches tall.
Mow the centipede grass with a sharp blade once it has reached 3 inches tall. Maintain a length of 1 to 1-½ inches after the initial mowing.