Centipede Grass Decline

       Did you find some spots on your centipede lawn that did not come back from last summer? If so this could centipede grass decline. Centipede decline is the failure to green up in the spring or green up followed by a decline and death in late spring and summer. Many factors contribute to this problem, but it can be managed with proper practices. This practices includes not over

fertilizing , managing thatch accumulation, watering during stress periods, and proper mowing height.

        Here are a few items to take in to consideration when looking at your lawn.

· Was the grass yellowing in the fall?

· Was the grass dark green most of the previous summer?

· Can the turf be pulled up easily?

· Is the ground hard or compacted?

· Has the grass turned a light green or curled up during dry weather?

· Has the grass died in defined circles in the turf area?

        If you have seen some of these factors in your yard and now you notice large dead spots then you may have centipede grass decline. This turf problem can be managed by using simple management practices. Make sure the soil is properly prepared before installation of grass in areas, follow proper fertilization practices, understand and follow mowing heights and thatch limits, and understand proper water management practices. Following these simple steps will ensure an outstanding lawn for many years to come.