Cenepede Grass

Felix – posted 28 May 2001 07:38

I know Cenepede Grass is a weed. I’ve had it in my yard for 15 years now. Recently in the past 2 years large “Dead Spots” are showing up in the yard. I use 15-0-15 fertilizer plus Iron pellets that usually make it green up and look great. Since we’ve been dealing with this drought and watering restrictions moisture is preimium unless it rains.Will the newer grass choke out this dead stuff or will I have to resod ? The dept of Agriculture here in town isn’t much help and I dread asking the “KID” at Home Depot.

wdrake – posted 28 May 2001 09:54

You can find a county listing of University of Georgia extension offices at http://128.192.110.246/sublist.cfm

They should be able and willing to help you. If you don’t get a satisfactory response ask them for a contact in the MASTER GARDNER program.

My view on your problem.Centipedegrass, like most of the warm season grasses, can ( usually does) develop multiple problems over time. There are so many centipede problems that they are often grouped into a single description as Centipedegrass decline – with the symptoms you describe. Causes(?) a.pH>6.5 b.Excessive nitrogen ( Your selection of 15-0-15 supplemented with iron is good) c. Cold d. Nematodes e. Disease

I think your dead spots will recover over time. If you want to accelerate recovery you can seed or sprig the areas. If you want instant relief; resod. If it were my yard I’d try to identify the problem, correct it and sprig!

Bill DrakeNiceville FL