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 Centipede was introduced by seed from China in 1919. Medium in texture with a pale to medium green color. Centipede is a slow growing but highly aggressive grass that can be depended upon to produce a good, dense, relatively weed-free turf at low maintenance levels. Some of Centipede's most desirable features are not readily apparent. It is one of the few grasses which does not look scalped when cutting is delayed too long and excessive growth removed, an important feature because most homeowners postpone mowing too long at times.
Centipede is probably the easiest of all the grasses to cut, and any type mower, if sharp, does an easy and attractive cutting job. A good rain or a good soaking enables Centipede to green up rapidly after a brief drought, which makes it an excellent drought tolerate grass.
Centipede is not suited to alkaline soils (high pH), and should be fertilized very sparingly. It has plenty of disease and insect enemies, but generally more trouble-free than other grasses if watered properly and fertilized sparingly or not at all.
These guidelines are not comprehensive as climate and soil conditions vary greatly
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Mow 1” to 2” with standard rotary mower. Bagging is preferred but not necessary. Mow every 7 to 10 days to ensure quality growth.
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Water every 3 days at least 1” of water. Must water heavy but less frequent to ensure proper growth. Might water more or less depending on weather conditions.
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Apply after danger of frost or mid February, early March. Prefer a weed and food with Atrazine to control annual weeds.
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Mid-April early application of insecticide is required to help prevent mole crickets and other harmful insects. More than one application may be needed.
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Centipede has very few disease problems. Annual dethatching and core aerating might be needed to help prevent compaction and other soil born diseases. Contact your local nurseryman or extension service for further information on diseases for centipede.
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Mow 1” to 2” with standard rotary mower. Mow every 10 to 14 days depending on desired height.
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As needed. You can water centipede too much in the fall and winter which can cause diseases.
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Centipede does not require a lot of fertilization. Summer fertilizer is optional depending on color and appearance you prefer.
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Mid-September, early October application is needed to help prevent insect damage during winter months.
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Winterizing or liming may be required depending on soil analysis.
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