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Mowing
Mow lawn at 1 inch at time of initial greenup. Mow before grass gets above 1 1/2 inches tall. Do not burn off centipede grass to remove excessive debris because of possible injury to the lawn and potential fire hazard.
Fertilization
DO NOT apply nitrogen at this time. Yellow appearance may be an indication of iron deficiency. Spray iron (ferrous) sulfate (2 ounces in water per 1,000 sq. ft.) or a chelated iron source to enhance color as needed. Follow label directions.
Irrigation
Water to prevent drought stress. About 1 inch of water per application each week is needed for growing centipede grass. Sandy soils often require more frequent watering; i.e., 1/2 inch of water every third day. Proper irrigation may prevent or reduce pest and nonpest problems from occurring later in the summer.
Weed Control
Apply preemergence herbicides to control crabgrass, goosegrass, and foxtail. Apply by the time that dogwoods are in full bloom. Apply postemergence herbicides in May as needed for control of summer annual and perennial broadleaf weeds such as knotweed, spurge, lespedeza, etc. Do not apply until 3 weeks after greenup. Centipede grass is sensitive to certain herbicides (e.g. 2,4-D), so follow label directions and use with caution.
Insect Control
Check for white grubs and control if necessary.
Thatch Removal
Power rake (vertical mow) to remove thatch (layer of undecayed grass) in late May if necessary. A 2- or 3-inch blade spacing set 1/4-inch deep in one direction works best. Do not use a power rake with a 1-inch blade spacing as severe turf injury may result.
Renovation
Replant large bare areas in May using seed (1/4 to 1/2 pound per 1,000 sq. ft.) or sprigs (3/4 bushel per 1,000 sq. ft.). Mixing seed with 2 gallons of fine sand per 1,000 sq. ft. will aid in distribution. Germination is expected in 28 days but establishment is slow. Keep seedbed continually moist with light, frequent sprinklings several times a day to ensure good germination. Three years for complete establishment of a new lawn is not uncommon.
June - August | September - November | December - February
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