How to Maintain Carpetgrass in Lawn Areas

If you are looking for a type of grass that is easy to maintain, carpetgrass might be your best bet. However, just like any other type of grass, it still requires proper care and maintenance to thrive. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to maintain carpetgrass in lawn areas so that your lawn can stay beautiful and healthy.

1. Mowing

Mowing is an essential part of lawn maintenance, and the same goes for carpetgrass. The ideal mowing height for carpetgrass is between 1.5 to 2 inches. Make sure to mow regularly, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This helps prevent shock and damage to the roots, which can lead to slower growth and poor health.

Additionally, make sure to keep your mower blades sharp. Dull blades tear rather than cut, which can also damage the grass and make it more susceptible to disease.

A person mowing carpetgrass in a lawn area

2. Watering

Carpetgrass prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, overwatering can also be detrimental to its health. The best way to determine when to water is to check the soil moisture level. Stick a screwdriver or a soil probe into the ground. If it goes through easily and comes out clean, then it's time to water. If the soil sticks to the tool, then it's still moist enough.

It's also important to water deeply and infrequently. Aim for about an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. Watering deeper encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the grass more resilient to drought and heat stress.

A sprinkler watering carpetgrass in a lawn area

3. Fertilizing

Fertilizing is another crucial component in maintaining carpetgrass in lawn areas. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring to fall) to encourage healthy growth. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can burn the grass and cause it to die.

If you prefer organic options, you can use compost or natural fertilizers. These alternatives provide nutrients to the soil and help improve its overall health.

A person spreading fertilizer on carpetgrass in a lawn area

4. Weed Control

Weeds can quickly take over a lawn if left unchecked. To control weeds in your carpetgrass lawn, apply pre-emergent herbicides before they have a chance to germinate. These herbicides stop weed seeds from sprouting and growing, reducing the need for post-emergent treatments.

If you already have weeds growing in your lawn, you can pull them by hand or use post-emergent herbicides. However, be careful not to damage the carpetgrass while doing so.

A person pulling weeds in a carpetgrass lawn area

5. Aeration

Aeration is the process of creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the root zone. This helps to relieve soil compaction, which can hinder grass growth and health.

To aerate your carpetgrass lawn, use a core aerator or a liquid aerator. Core aerators remove small plugs of soil from the ground, while liquid aerators are applied directly to the soil using a spray bottle or hose attachment.

A person using a core aerator on a carpetgrass lawn area

6. Pest Control

Pests such as chinch bugs and armyworms can damage your carpetgrass lawn if left untreated. Look for signs of pests, such as brown patches or chewed grass blades. If you suspect a pest problem, contact a professional pest control service to identify and treat the issue.

You can also prevent pest problems by keeping your lawn healthy and free of debris. Pests prefer weak, unhealthy grass, so regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing infestations.

A pest control specialist treating a carpetgrass lawn area

Overall, maintaining carpetgrass in lawn areas is relatively easy with proper care and maintenance. By following these tips, you can ensure that your lawn stays healthy, lush, and green throughout the year.