Centipede grass is famous for its heat tolerance and notably low maintenance requirements. As a favorite of lawn owners interested in minimal upkeep, Centipede grass requires far less care than most other grasses in South Carolina. In this article, we will discuss how South Carolina’s climate affects Centipede grass, the ideal time to fertilize and the maintenance requirements for successful growth.

How Does the Climate Affect Centipede Grass in South Carolina?

Centipede grass has very specific climate and soil requirements and South Carolina far exceeds these. Centipede grass is a warm-season turf grass, meaning the growing season begins in late spring and lasts throughout the summer and into the fall before it goes dormant for the winter. The beginning of the growing season is called “green-up,” as the grass grow bright green blades and the lawn starts growing.

The exact timing of the spring green-up depends on the temperature and in South Carolina green-up temperature typically begins in April. During the green up period, the new growth is very delicate and can be harmed by herbicides in weed and feed products. In addition, feeding too early can cause growth that may be damaged by late cold fronts.

When is the Ideal Time to Fertilize Centipede Grass in South Carolina?

The best time to apply fertilizer to centipede grass is a few weeks after green-up and before temperatures reach 85° F. In South Carolina, we usually experience this mid-May, however, let your lawn be your guide.

Keep in mind when fertilizing Centipede grass:

  • Centipede grass does not respond well to high doses of fertilizer. Too much nitrogen will cause a growth susceptible to disease, and phosphorus will deplete iron levels. It is recommended that you use a phosphorus-free fertilizer such as 15-0-15, with only about 2 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet.
  • If you treat your lawn earlier than recommended, use fertilizer only rather than a weed and feed product.
  • General-purpose weed and feed products can be deadly to this type of lawn. Make sure you purchase a product specifically designed and labeled for Centipede grass.
  • Never apply fertilizer until after all forecasts of frost have passed.

What are the Maintenance Requirements for Centipede Grass in South Carolina?

There are several things to keep in mind when maintaining your Centipede grass lawn:
Thatch. Another reason for Centipede grass’s popularity is its resistant to most disease and insects. However, a build up of thatch could negate its resistance. Early spring raking and using a bag catcher when mowing can help prevent thatch build up.
Mowing.  Mowing Centipede grass at the correct height is absolutely critical to its development. Centipede grass should be mowed to about 1½ to 2 inches. At height of more than 2 inches, thatch will develop. Another consideration is lawn mower maintenance; ensure that your lawn mower blade is sharp to avoid tearing the grass rather than cutting.
 

Watering. Centipede grass has shallow roots and it tends to turn brown sooner than other types of grass during drought and heat. Water Centipede grass when you see wilting, rolling leaves or when the grass turns grayish-green. Then apply about an inch of water, or enough to wet the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Drainage. Provide good surface and subsurface drainage for Centipede grass since excess moisture is ideal for disease development. If your lawn has depressions, top-dress them with sand and level the area, making sure leaf blades of Centipede grass show through the sand. Top soil and core aerating are best done from May through August to help surface drainage.

In poorly drained soils, top soil with sand may not provide good enough drainage and a drainage system may need to be installed. It is vital to move standing water away from Centipede grass.

Shade. Centipede needs about 6 hours of full sun a day. Thinning tree branches or removing lower tree limbs may be an option if shade is limiting the growth of the grass.

Nutrition. The nutrient requirements of centipedegrass are different from most other turfgrasses. An acid soil pH of 5.0 to 6.0 is preferred by this turfgrass species. As the pH goes above 6.0, Iron (Fe) availability decreases. Iron deficiency causes the grass to become chlorotic or yellow. A high phosphorous level also renders iron unavailable in the soil, resulting in chlorotic symptoms. Centipede grass has a lighter green foliage than most other turfgrasses. It will become dark green with excessive nitrogen applications, which can be a primary cause of diseases like Centipede Grass Decline.

 

Looking for Centipede sod in South Carolina? With more than 40 years of experience growing and installing Centipedegrass, the experts at Nimmer Turf know what it takes to create a healthy, lasting lawn. Whether you’re starting fresh or replacing an existing yard, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Request your free estimate today and discover why homeowners and landscapers across the Southeast trust Nimmer Turf for their Centipede sod. Let our team put our experience to work for you. Contact Nimmer Turf today!