- Centipede grass has its roots in China, and is popular in the Southeastern U.S. St. Augustine on the other hand has its roots in Africa, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, and is popular in the Southeast region. Today, these two grasses are popular on golf courses in the Southeastern United States, as well as divided highways.
- Centipede is a low growing grass that has a medium dense texture, identified by its light greenish color. St. Augustine is a dense grass with broad, coarse leaves and a blue-green color. Additionally, centipede is a low growing grass while St. Augustine is moderately growing grass.
- Centipede is a low maintenance grass, which tolerates moderate shade and grows well in full sun. It does not require a lot of care, and thrives with minimal mowing and fertilization. St. Augustine grass tolerates moderate shade, and humid weather, requires frequent fertilization to maintain its green color, and requires frequent mowing to minimize weed infestation. Sod and plugs are the two methods use to plant St. Augustine grass because seeds are not readily available. Centipede accommodates grass seed planting as well as sod.
- St. Augustine grass is susceptible to disease as well as pests, and tolerates salty conditions. Another disadvantage to St. Augustine is its tendency to create large thatch, and its high moisture content. On the other hand, Centipede resists disease and pests and does not tolerate salt condition. Additionally, it does not require a lot of watering, and does not create thatch.
- The two grasses have trouble withstanding cold temperatures. However, St. Augustine will develop brown patches in cold temperatures, a fungal disease. Centipede, on the other hand, will suffer extensive damage with intermittent cold and warm temperatures, and can withstand colder temperatures than St. Augustine. However, St. Augustine grass will not survive severe frost, and the homeowner may have to replant next summer.
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