- Fertilize centipede and St. Augustine lawns at a rate of 1/2 lb. nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft., which is equal to 10 lbs. of 5-0-15 per 1,000 sq. ft.
- Leave clippings on the lawn – they return nutrients and water to the soil and do not contribute to thatch.
- Thatch build up is the result of over fertilization. If your lawn has a thatch layer thicker than a half inch, power rake in May to remove thatch.
- Aerate lawns only if the soil has become compacted.
- Frequent mowing encourages lawns to thicken and reduces weed problems. Maintain bermudagrass, zoysia, and centipede lawns at 1” tall; St. Augustine lawns at 3-4”.
- Spray broadleaf weeds with a post emergent herbicide. The best product to use will depend on the weeds you are trying to control and your turf type. Do not use 2,4-D on centipede lawns.
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