Yellowing is often a sign of a condition known as chlorosis. Iron is a necessary nutrient used by the plant in the formation of chlorophyll, which of course is needed for photosynthesis in plants. Certain soil conditions, such as improper soil pH and/or the presence of high phosphate levels, can cause elemental iron to be locked up in compounds the plant cannot take up and use. Since the plant can't get the iron it needs, it can't form chlorophyll and photosynthesize properly, resulting in the yellowed appearance. This can be corrected in some cases by applying chelated iron to the soil. It may also be corrected by applying elemental sulfur, which will reduce soil pH and release iron.
Centipede has a lighter green color that is very different than either Bermuda or St. Augustine, both of which show a darker green hue that many homeowners yearn for. Unhappy homeowners often try to "push" Centipede to put out greener growth through the use of high Nitrogen fertilizers. Don't do it. The grass will green up, but the lush new growth will be irresistable to lawn pests and only lead to thatch formation down the road. Instead of trying to push your grass with too much Nitrogen, try applying some Iron instead. The grass will green up very nicely, but you won't have the pest or drought stress problems. In my experience, 95% of the disease, insect and drought stress problems in Centipede lawns are caused by over-fertilization. Even using the wrong fertilizer can cause problems in Centipede. Whereas most grasses do well using complete fertilizers (like 16-4-8 or sometimes 12-4-8), Centipede needs only trace amounts of Phosphorous. Thus, fertilizer companies have developed a 15-0-15 analysis that contains 2% or 3% Iron. Look for it. Apply it once, maybe twice a year at 7 lbs per 1,000 square feet of turf.
Many lawn care tip sheets tell you to add lime once a year. If your grass is actively growing and responding to fertilizer applications, you don't need to add anything at all. Lime raises soil pH. In some soil conditions, raising pH can cause Iron deficiency problems. With some types of grass, adding lime to your lawn can serious damage or even kill it. Unless you have had your soil analyzed and the results recommend the addition of lime, don't do it.
What are the DOīs and DONTīs of Lawn Care?
What kind of grass should I plant?
What is the best way to mow the lawn?
How do I get stripes like ballparks do?
What kind of weed is this? How do I get rid of it?
Why has my well manicured lawn has been invaded by disease?
What are some common lawn problems?
Do you have any tips for professionals?
What kind of bug is this? How do I get rid of it?
What are some common lawn problems?
Why is my grass not doing well?
How do I start a new lawn using seed?
How do I get rid of mushrooms?
How can I make the transition between driveway and entry more pleasant
How do I permanently rid my lawn of weeds?
How do I treat a lawn disease?
What are some common lawn problems?
Can I use Weed and Feed on my lawn?
How can I control the growth of my lawnīs grass?
What is the best way to mow the lawn?
Why did my grass turn brown after I fertilized?
Whatīs the best way to mow the lawn quickly?
Why is my grass not doing well?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
How can I put a waterfall in my rock garden?
How do I treat a lawn disease?
Can I analyze the soil with a kit?
When is the best time to plant trees?
Why should I mulch my clippings?
Which existing plants should I keep?
Can my property be too wet for a good lawn?
Is it best to plant trees before or after shrubs?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
What are guidelines for where to plant a tree?
What seed should I plant for the best results?
Where do I start to prune a garden?
What does too much pruning do?
Where should I put my water garden?
What are the benefits of pruning?
Whatīs the best way to prune spruce trees?
Where can I get a soil analysis?
How do you remove soft growth from fruit trees?
How thick a branch will pruners trim?
What should I look for when buying loppers?
What tools do I need for pruning?
How can i reduce landscape maintenance?
What material should I use for my pond?
What can I do about sandy soil?
How can I prevent fungus in a shady garden?
Why did my grass turn brown after I fertilized?
Should I build a large or small pool?
Why are there more fungi in the shady parts of the garden?
How much should I water a shade garden?
How can I prevent plant fungi?
How does pruning keep trees healthy?
What soil should I use for shade gardening?
What advantages are there to shade gardening?
What is next after planting cedars for a hedge?