A Guide to a Lush Lawn; Growing Centipede Grass
Are you looking for a low maintenance grass which easily thrives in the climate specifically in the Southern US area? The lawn which shows you a lush green colour and provides you a touch of softness then centipede is the solution for you. For different homeowners Growing Centipede Grass in their lawn is a popular choice. Even for those who are looking for the options for a hardy lawn which require fewer chemicals. Centipede grass requires less mowing, fertilizer and less water. It can easily move in dry areas once they are established properly.
Steps To Grow and Maintain Centipede Grass
Here is a proper breakdown about centipede grass.
Understand Centipede Grass
Before growing centipede grass, assess some facts about it and understand that it is a slow growing grass. This specific quality is that they provide you a dense growth of dark green colour. It requires low maintenance and is a good option for those who are eco-conscious.
Choose right Location
Some aspects must be pointed out before planting centipede grass. Like if your lawn faces full sun, then go for this type of grass. It thrives beautifully when your lawn gets proper sunlight. pH must be in between 5 to 6 for better growth.
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Prepare the soil
Remove weeds if your lawn contains them by manually or applying weed killer. Prepare your lawn loosening the top of the soil. Aerate your lawn if soil is compacted and apply treatments after testing soil pH, according to your soil requirements. Centipede grass grow best in acidic to normal soil.
Planting Grass
After preparing soil, plant your centipede by any of your favourite methods. Like if you want to plant grass according to the seeding method. Then the preferable temperature of soil is 18 degree centigrade. Just spread the seeds all over the area and water it consistently.
However, if you want quicker results, then you can go for sodding or plugging.
Watering grass
After planting the grass, it’s time to water them appropriately. Make sure that you avoid over watering and under watering. Just water your centipede grass until it is established. Once they are established then no need to water them every day, Because it is a drought tolerant grass which can survive in less water.
Fertilizing Grass
Overall, the centipede grass requires low nutrients. But apply a slow release formula which consists of nitrogen fertilizer in late spring. This fertilizer makes your root development strong and promotes healthy nourishment. Avoid overfertilizing as it burns the grass and under fertilizing as it weakens the grass health.
Mowing Grass
Proper maintenance can only be done if you take proper care of your lawn by mowing appropriately. Yes! No doubt centipedes require low maintenance but require somehow for maintaining good health. Avoid mowing short as it stresses the grass and high mowing as it builds thatch.
Apply Controls
Top advantage of planting a centipede is that it is pest resistant. But sometimes it can be affected by any fungal disease if you don’t apply any controls. So, it’s best to apply pre-emergent herbicides during establishing grass. But if any fungal disease occurs then you can go for post-emergent herbicides.
Overall, Centipede don’t need too much maintenance but in winter the grass turns brown if you don’t fertilize them or overwater them in colder months. So, take proper lawn care maintenance after right consultation.
Are you looking for more information related to centipede grass, click out here- Perfect GreenYard helps you out.
FAQ’s
- Where does centipede grass grow best?
Centipede grass thrives in warm, sunny climates with well-drained, acidic soil, making it ideal for the Southeastern US.
- How do you strengthen centipede grass?
Providing proper watering, mowing at the right height, using low-nitrogen fertilizer, and controlling weeds effectively.
- What is the appropriate height for mowing centipede grass?
You can mow centipede grass of height 1.5 to 2 inches.
- Can I use any natural treatment for dealing with bugs?
Yes! Natural treatments are the best option in dealing with bugs. As it is also chemical free and does not harm grass health.
- Do I have to amend soil if pH is too alkaline before planting?
Yes! Alkaline soil may need amendment with sulfur. It will help you to maintain your soil pH.