Bermuda grass and Centipede grass are two common turfgrass species, each with distinct characteristics and suitability for different environments. Understanding the differences between Bermuda and Centipede grass is essential for making informed decisions about lawn care and landscaping.
The difference between Bermuda and Centipede grass is their growth habits. Bermuda grass is typically more aggressive, with a faster growth rate and better tolerance to heavy foot traffic, while Centipede grass has a slower growth rate and is more sensitive to cold temperatures.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Bermuda Grass
3. What is Centipede Grass
4. Similarities – Bermuda and Centipede Grass
5. Bermuda vs Centipede Grass in Tabular Form
6. Summary – Bermuda vs Centipede Grass
7. FAQ – Bermuda and Centipede Grass
What is Bermuda Grass?
Bermuda grass is a warm-season turfgrass ideal for Southern regions. It’s known for its resilience in harsh conditions such as heat, drought, and foot traffic. It spreads rapidly via above and below-ground runners, forming a dense green carpet during spring and summer. While it goes dormant in fall and winter, some varieties remain green in frost-free areas, making it a popular choice for year-round green lawns in warmer climates.
This grass type is highly drought-tolerant, requiring only 1 to 1-1/2 inches of water per week once established, and can survive prolonged periods of dry weather by going dormant for up to four weeks. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil but can tolerate some alkalinity. Full sun exposure is essential for Bermuda grass to thrive, although it may struggle in shady areas.
Regular maintenance includes frequent mowing and fertilization to prevent thatch buildup and maintain its vibrant green color. With its rapid growth rate, Bermuda grass may require mowing as often as twice a week during peak growing seasons. Additionally, it’s important to maintain borders to prevent them from encroaching into adjacent areas, as it has a tendency to invade planting beds and walkways if left unchecked. Despite its relatively high maintenance requirements, Bermuda grass remains a popular choice for lawns due to its durability and lush appearance in warm climates.
What is Centipede Grass?
Centipede grass, originating from China and Southeast Asia, was introduced to the U.S. in 1916. A warm-season grass, it thrives best during the late spring to summer months, though it’s more sensitive to cold than other warm-season varieties. While it can withstand mild winters in suitable climates, it struggles in areas with harsher cold or alkaline soil, restricting its use mainly to the sandy, acidic soils of the Southeastern U.S.
Although Centipede grass tolerates heat well, it lacks drought resistance, making regions with high rainfall, like the Southeast, ideal. Its shallow root system necessitates regular watering during dry spells, though it recovers quickly once conditions normalize. Unlike some warm-season grasses, Centipede remains green throughout winter in mild climates but is susceptible to cold damage without a true dormancy period.
Compared to other grasses like Bermuda grass, Centipede requires less maintenance, typically avoiding dethatching or overseeding for winter color. It spreads slowly via above-ground stems known as stolons, forming a dense lawn over time, but it’s less resilient to heavy traffic and recovers slowly. While more shade-tolerant than Bermudagrass, it’s less tolerant of salt.
Similarities Between Bermuda and Centipede Grass
- Bermuda and Centipede grass are warm-season turfgrass species, meaning they thrive in warm temperatures and are commonly found in regions with hot summers.
- Both grasses can be propagated via seeding or sodding to establish new lawns or fill in existing areas.
- These grasses are commonly used as turfgrass for lawns, parks, and recreational areas due to their ability to form dense, attractive turf.
Comparing the Difference Between Bermuda and Centipede Grass
Appearance
- Bermuda grass often has narrower leaf blades and a denser, more uniform appearance.
- Centipede grass tends to have wider blades and a lighter green color.
Soil Preferences
- Bermuda grass thrives in a wider range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Centipede grass prefers acidic, well-draining soils.
Maintenance Requirements
- Bermuda grass typically requires more frequent mowing, fertilization, and irrigation compared to Centipede grass.
- Centipede grass generally requires less maintenance, making it a lower-maintenance option for lawns.
Cold Tolerance
- Centipede grass is generally more sensitive to cold temperatures and may struggle in cooler climates.
- Bermuda grass has better cold tolerance and can withstand colder temperatures more effectively.
Foot Traffic Tolerance
- Bermuda grass is more resilient to heavy foot traffic and wear compared to Centipede grass.
- Centipede grass is easily damaged by heavy foot traffic and may not recover as quickly.
Shade Tolerance
- Centipede grass is more tolerant of shade than Bermuda grass, making it a better choice for partially shaded areas.
- Bermuda grass prefers full sun and may struggle in shaded environments.
Drought Tolerance
- Centipede grass generally exhibits better drought tolerance once established compared to Bermuda grass.
- Bermuda grass may require more frequent watering during dry periods to maintain its health and appearance.
Below is a summary of the difference between Bermuda grass and Centipede grass in tabular form for side-by-side comparison.
Summary – Bermuda vs Centipede Grass
In summary, Bermuda grass and Centipede grass have unique traits suited to different conditions and preferences. Bermuda grass spreads aggressively and withstands heavy foot traffic, while Centipede grass tolerates shade better and requires less maintenance. Choosing between them depends on factors like climate, soil type, and desired upkeep. Understanding these differences helps homeowners and landscapers make practical decisions for their lawns.
FAQ: Bermuda and Centipede Grass
1. Can I mix centipede and Bermuda?
While it’s technically possible to mix Centipede and Bermuda grass in a lawn, it’s generally not recommended. These two grass species have different growth habits, maintenance requirements, and appearances, which can lead to an uneven and inconsistent lawn.
2. How can I tell if I have Centipede grass?
You can identify Centipede grass by its pointed blades, which often have a notch, and its light green color. It may need more fertilizing to keep it looking good. Also, Centipede grass usually has alternating leaves at the nodes and sharper leaf blades than St. Augustine grass.
3. What kills centipede grass?
Centipede grass can be killed by factors such as extremely cold temperatures, drought stress, and improper soil conditions like poor drainage. Overwatering, shade, and disease or pest infestations can also contribute to its decline or death.
4. Will Bermuda grass overtake centipede grass?
Yes, Bermuda grass can potentially overtake Centipede grass due to its aggressive spreading nature and ability to outcompete other grass species. Without proper maintenance and control measures, Bermuda grass may quickly dominate and replace Centipede grass in a lawn.
5. What does Bermuda grass look like?
Bermuda grass typically has narrow, pointed leaf blades and a dense, low-growing habit. It often displays a vibrant green color during periods of active growth and spreads rapidly via above-ground stems called stolons.
Reference:
1. “All you need to know about Bermuda grass.” Pennigton.
2. “All you need to know about Centipede grass.” Pennigton.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Focus Photography of Green Bermuda Grass” (CC0) via Pexels
2. “starr-070906-8535-Stenotaphrum_secundatum-habit-Kula_Ace_Hardware_and_Nursery-Maui” By Forest and Kim Starr (CC BY 2.0 DEED) via Flickr