Centipede grass is a warm-season turf species valued for its low-maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in the humid, warm climates of the southeastern United States. This slow-growing grass naturally forms a dense, apple-green lawn. Establishing a centipede lawn from seed is a cost-effective alternative to sod or plugs, allowing for the coverage of large areas. Successful planting depends on meticulous preparation and careful post-planting management.
Preparing the Soil and Timing the Planting
Timing is crucial for a successful centipede lawn, as it requires significant warmth for germination. Sow the seed in late spring or early summer, generally from April through July, after the last frost danger has passed. Centipede seed will not germinate until the soil temperature is consistently between 65°F and 70°F, making a soil thermometer helpful for verification.
Prior to seeding, clear the planting area of all existing vegetation, debris, and weeds to eliminate competition for the slow-growing seedlings. Centipede grass performs best in slightly acidic soil, ideally with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. A soil test is recommended to determine the current pH level and identify necessary amendments, such as sulfur to lower the pH if the soil is too alkaline, which can lead to iron deficiencies. Once the soil chemistry is addressed, lightly till or rake the surface to loosen the top layer, creating a smooth, firm seedbed.
Calculating Seed Rate and Application Methods
Centipede grass seed is extremely fine, requiring precise calculation and application to ensure uniform coverage. The typical seeding rate for a new lawn is low, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 pound of seed per 1,000 square feet. This rate is sufficient because centipede spreads laterally using above-ground stems called stolons to fill in gaps over time.
Because the seed particles are small, mix the seed with a carrier material, such as dry sand or fine topdressing, before spreading to ensure even distribution. Apply this mixture using a drop or rotary spreader. Divide the total seed quantity in half, applying the first half walking in one direction and the second half walking perpendicularly. This method minimizes skips and overlaps. After broadcasting, lightly rake the area or use a roller to press the seed into the soil surface, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact without burying the seed more than 1/4 inch deep.
Essential Care for Seedling Establishment
The period immediately following planting demands dedicated moisture management for successful germination. Centipede grass has a slow germination rate, taking 14 to 28 days to sprout. During this establishment phase, keep the top inch of the soil continuously moist. This often requires light, frequent watering multiple times a day, especially in warm weather.
Once seedlings emerge and establish a root system, gradually transition the watering routine to deeper, less frequent irrigation. This encourages roots to grow downward, making the grass more resilient and drought-tolerant. Competition from weeds is common due to the slow growth, but avoid applying herbicides too early, as they can harm the new seedlings. Perform the first mowing once the grass blades reach 2 to 3 inches, cutting the lawn back to approximately 1.5 inches to encourage lateral spread and denser growth.