Centipedegrass is a low-maintenance turf that needs 1 to 2 pounds of nitrogen per year per 1,000 square feet. Apply one application in late spring and another in late summer. The higher rate is best for sandy soils and the lower rate is best for clay soils.
We’ll cover a basic fertilizer routine for your centipedegrass lawn through the seasons. But remember, the best way to determine your lawn’s fertilizer and amendment needs is to perform a soil test. Another tip? Skip the nitrogen in winter and fall.
Centipedegrass Seasonal Fertilization
During late spring, after your lawn has greened up, apply one-half to one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. In late summer, apply another half or one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. This will help your lawn keep healthy during the hot months.
In autumn, you don’t need to apply nitrogen. However, if your soil test recommends it, you can add lime or sulfur to adjust the pH. Potassium can be applied to enhance winter hardiness.
When to Fertilize Centipedegrass in Spring (March – May)
When your centipedegrass lawn wakes up in late spring, it’s ready for its first meal of the year. Apply one-half to one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. This first fertilizer application should be done after the lawn greens up (which typically occurs in May) and following a soil test result.
If your centipedegrass is looking yellow, a soil test may indicate the need for an iron sulfate application. Spray the lawn with a mixture of iron sulfate (2 ounces in 3 to 5 gallons of water per 1,000 square feet) to bring back the green color.
Avoid fertilizing your grass before May. If you fertilize in March or April and new grass starts to grow, there is a high risk of late frost which can result in great damage to your lawn.
When to Fertilize Centipedegrass in Summer (June – August)
During late summer (August), fertilize and lime your lawn based on your soil test results and aim to give a boost with half to one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet..
When to Fertilize Centipedegrass in Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is when you need to prepare your lawn for its winter nap. First, skip the nitrogen.
If the soil test indicates the need for potassium, this is the moment for it. You can apply potassium to enhance winter hardiness if your soil test indicates insufficient levels of it. Apply 1 pound of potassium per 1,000 square feet, 4 to 6 weeks before the first frost.
When Not to Fertilize Centipedegrass
There are times when it’s best to put the fertilizer down and back away. Here are some situations when you shouldn’t fertilize your lawn:
- Dormancy: Don’t apply fertilizer during winter. When your grass is dormant, it’s not able to absorb the nutrients.
- Excessive heat: Don’t fertilize during excessive heat or drought as it can stress your lawn.
- Weed infestation: If your lawn looks like a weed convention, don’t fertilize. Feeding the grass will also feed the weeds, making them stronger. Address the weeds first then fertilize.
- Rain: After a rainstorm, wait a few days before fertilizing so the nutrients don’t wash away.
- When you don’t have soil test results: Applying fertilizer without a soil test is like cooking without a recipe. You may get it right, but it’s a gamble. A soil test will tell you what your lawn needs.
FAQ About Centipedegrass
What happens if I over-fertilize my centipedegrass lawn?
Applying more than 2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year can damage your centipedegrass lawn. Over-fertilization leads to excessive thatch buildup and increases the risk of centipedegrass decline.
What should I do if my centipedegrass lawn looks yellow during spring?
A yellow appearance during the growing season may indicate an iron deficiency due to excessive phosphorus or a high soil pH. You can enhance your lawn color by adding iron.
What should I do if my soil pH is high?
You can apply sulfur to lower the soil pH. Apply 5 pounds of pelletized sulfur per 1,000 square feet. Make sure to apply it when the temperature is below 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Find Help to Maintain Your Lawn
Centipedegrass may demand some attention with its fertilizer tasks, but the reward is a beautiful apple-green lawn. If you ever need help fertilizing, mowing, or battling pests and weeds, contact a lawn care professional near you.
Main Photo Credit: The Toidi / Adobe Stock
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