Centipede Grass - opinions pro/con?

[dirigo]

Howdy!

I am either going to hydroseed or sod (depends on cost of sod!) my front yard and have decided upon doing so with Centipede grass. I have tall fescue, but it didn't fair too well. I live in northwestern GA area and from what I've read it appears Centipede grass is a good candidate for our area. My soil is not the best - it is somewhat rocky and of course has a good layer of clay down under.

I'm curious what opinions/thoughts you folks have on my selection? The area will get a fair amount of sunshine during the day and it is not too shady overall although I do have three oak tree islands that will cast some shade.

Thanks in advance,

dirigo

[trees]

dirigo-

Centipede may not work really well for you. It's a little cold in this part of the world for it. I'm in Memphis & I don't think our climates are that far apart. In fact, you may be a little colder than we are if you are at any kind of altitude (between Atlanta & Chattanooga).

I'd suggest you talk with local contractors, not just read. Sometimes the language you read in plant write-ups can lead you to believe something will do well when it will not. The best litmus test for these things is if the plant is being used successfully in the landscape. I like zoysia for our climate.

[dirigo]

Hi Trees!

Thanks for your response. Yup, I'm along the I-75 corridor between Atlanta and Chattanooga - just outside Cartersville area. The elevation isn't that high ... think it's about 1000-1100 foot level, but am probably off.

Good advice ... don't believe everything you read! :) I don't. I like Zoysia. It appears to do pretty well in this area as well. I guess I was looking at the "lazy man's grass" as I'm not so nimble anymore. :D

According to the research folks (gub'mint) down there in Tifton, GA, they claim a new blend/breed of centipedegrass (TifBlair) will do very well in colder climates and not great soil, such as low PH, etc. Supposedly it was tested in part of Oklahoma and Blairsville, GA (which is at the higher elevation levels).

I've seen a few lawns of Centipedegrass and they didn't look bad, but was wondering how you folks, who actually work with the stuff, felt about it. I've had trouble with actually being able to get a hold of anyone to talk to about it. My guess is this is a busy time of year for you folks! :rolleyes: Oh well ...

Take care.