Centipede Grass Care in Middle Georgia
Centipede grass is low-maintenance by nature, but that doesn't mean no maintenance. The right care keeps it thick, green, and problem-free in Georgia's climate.
Centipede basics
What Centipede Grass Needs in Middle Georgia
Centipede grass is popular in Middle Georgia because it requires less mowing, less fertilization, and less water than bermuda. But its low-maintenance reputation is a double-edged sword — many homeowners under-care for it and end up with thin, yellowing turf.
Centipede is sensitive to over-fertilization and prefers acidic soil. Getting the balance right is the difference between a healthy lawn and centipede decline.
Centipede Quick Facts
Mow at 1.5-2 inches
Low maintenance grass
Slow growing
Sensitive to over-fertilization
Prefers acidic soil
Seasonal schedule
Centipede Grass Care by Season
Spring
March - May
- Centipede greens up later than bermuda — don’t rush it
- First mow when grass reaches 2 inches
- Light fertilization only — centipede burns easily
- Pre-emergent application before weed seeds germinate
Summer
June - August
- Minimal fertilization needed — centipede is a light feeder
- Mow at 1.5-2 inches, no lower
- Watch for chinch bugs — they love hot, dry centipede lawns
- Water 1 inch per week if rain is scarce
Fall
September - November
- Last light feeding if soil test indicates need
- Growth slows as temperatures drop
- Pre-emergent for winter annual weeds
- Avoid heavy nitrogen — late fertilization damages centipede
Winter
December - February
- Fully dormant — turns brown, stops growing
- Avoid heavy traffic on dormant turf
- No fertilization
- Spot treat active winter weeds as needed
Common issues
Problems That Affect Centipede in Georgia
Centipede Decline
Yellowing, thinning turf that doesn’t recover. Usually caused by over-fertilization, wrong soil pH, or compacted soil. The fix starts underground.
Chinch Bugs
Small insects that suck moisture from blades and inject toxin. Damage looks like drought stress but doesn’t improve with watering. Most active in hot, dry conditions.
Over-Fertilization Burn
Centipede needs far less nitrogen than bermuda. Too much fertilizer causes iron chlorosis (yellowing) and weakens the grass. Less is more.
Large Patch
Circular brown patches in spring and fall. Centipede is especially susceptible when soil is between 60-75°F and humidity is high.
Expert service
How Attaboy Manages Centipede Lawns
Centipede grass needs a lighter touch than bermuda. We adjust our fertilization rates, product selection, and treatment schedule specifically for centipede — because what works for bermuda can actually harm centipede.
Guides
Centipede Grass Treatment Guides
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Low-Maintenance Doesn't Mean No Maintenance
Centipede grass is forgiving, but it still needs the right care at the right time. Get a treatment plan built for your centipede lawn — starting within 24 hours.
