Centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides) is a popular warm-season grass known for its low maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in acidic soils. It originates from Southeast Asia and is well-suited for lawns in the southeastern United States. This guide will provide homeowners with the information needed to identify, care for, and maintain a centipedegrass lawn, ensuring it remains healthy and attractive year-round.
What Is Centipedegrass?
Centipedegrass is a slow-growing, warm-season perennial grass that is prized for its low upkeep and tolerance to poor soils. It is often referred to as "lazy man's grass" due to its minimal need for mowing, fertilizing, and watering. This grass forms a dense, medium-textured turf that ranges in color from light to medium green.
How To Identify Centipedegrass
Identifying centipedegrass involves looking for several key characteristics.
Leaves: Blades are flat, with a pointed tip and a light green color. They are typically 2 to 4 inches long and 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide.
Growth Habit: Spreads by stolons (above-ground runners) that root at the nodes, forming a dense sod. It has a relatively low growth height, typically between 3 to 5 inches.
Seed Heads: Seed heads are rarely seen, but when present, they are slender and spike-like, appearing on stems above the foliage.
Life Cycle Of Centipedegrass
Centipedegrass, as a warm-season grass, follows a specific growth pattern throughout the year.
Spring: Growth resumes as temperatures rise, and the grass begins to green up.
Summer: Peak growth period. The grass is actively growing, spreading, and forming a dense turf.
Autumn: Growth slows as temperatures cool. The grass prepares for dormancy, gradually turning brown.
Centipedegrass is low maintenance but requires proper care to maintain its health and appearance.
Mowing: Mow to a height of 1.5 to 2 inches. Mow regularly during the growing season, typically every 1 to 2 weeks.
Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Established centipedegrass is drought-tolerant and can survive on natural rainfall in many regions.
Fertilizing: Fertilize once a year in late spring or early summer with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as centipedegrass is sensitive to excessive nitrogen.
Aeration: Aerate the lawn once a year in late spring or early summer to reduce soil compaction and improve water and nutrient absorption. Use a core aerator to remove small plugs of soil, allowing the lawn to breathe. Alternatively, using liquid aeration can get the job done without the mess.
Seasonal Care For Centipedegrass
Though caring for centipedegrass is fairly straightforward, it does vary from season to season.
Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
Begin watering as needed, depending on rainfall.
Summer
Maintain a regular mowing schedule.
Water deeply but infrequently.
Monitor for signs of pests and disease.
Autumn
Gradually reduce mowing frequency as growth slows.
Continue to water as needed until the grass goes dormant.
Remove fallen leaves to prevent smothering the grass.
Winter
Centipedegrass remains dormant, requiring no watering or mowing.
Avoid heavy traffic on the lawn to prevent soil compaction.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centipedegrass is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common issues.
Pests
Ground Pearls: Small, scale-like insects that feed on the roots, causing yellowing and thinning of the grass. There is no effective chemical control; maintain healthy lawn practices to minimize damage.
Nematodes: Microscopic worms that damage roots, leading to poor growth. Soil testing and proper lawn care can help manage their impact.
Diseases
Summer Patch: A fungal disease that creates large patches of dead grass. Ensure proper watering practices and avoid over-fertilization to reduce the risk.
Dollar Spot: Causes small, sunken patches of dead grass. Maintain proper nitrogen levels and watering practices to prevent it.
Centipedegrass is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn. Regular maintenance, including mowing, watering, and aeration, along with vigilant monitoring for pests and diseases, will keep your centipedegrass lawn healthy and thriving throughout the year. Reach out to Little John's Lawns for more information on keeping your Arizona property looking great!
