Centipede grass was first brought to the United States from China in 1916, according to the Texas Cooperative Extension's website. This grass is a popular choice for lawns in the southeastern portion of the United States because it adapts very well to the sandy soil conditions in these areas. When centipede grass turns yellow or is suffering from disease, it is known as centipede decline. Does this Spark an idea?
Large Patch
Large patch is caused by Rhizoctonia solani AG2-2LP and commonly affects centipede grass, according to the North Carolina State University. Large patch most commonly appears during wet conditions in the summer, spring and fall. Large patches of thin grass are a symptom of large patch, but the earliest symptoms of the disease may be yellow patches on centipede grass. These circular patches range from one foot to several yards in diameter, and appear yellow, orange, red or tan. Certain types of fungicides can control this disease, but damage can continue during periods of dry weather. Avoid planting centipede grass in areas prone to large patch as it is susceptible to the effects of the disease, states North Carolina State University.
High pH
Healthy centipede grass depends on certain nutritional factors. High pH, low potassium levels and high levels of phosphorus can cause centipede grass to turn bright yellow. According to North Carolina University, centipede grass is more likely to turn yellow during the spring. Using nitrogen fertilizers in excess and improper watering in drought times, can also cause this grass to turn yellow. Combining fertilizer use with high phosphorus levels can further contribute to centipede decline. Testing the soil can help determine any nutritional problems your centipede grass has and is helpful in determining which type of fertilizer is best for your grass.
Chinch Bugs
While chinch bugs most commonly invade St. Augustine grass, centipede grass can also suffer from chinch bug infestation. The southern chinch bug causes yellowing of centipede grass and dead patches of grass. When insect numbers increase, so does the amount of damage to the lawn. According to the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, chinch bug damage develops quickly and is more common in sunny areas that experience bouts of hot, dry weather. Patches of yellowing grass that forms around dead spots in centipede grass are where chinch bugs are usually seen. Caring for your centipede grass properly will help reduce the likelihood of chinch bug infestation. Proper mowing, lawn aeration and a reduction in the use of fertilizers can help prevent chinch bug infestation in centipede grass.
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